What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.
This definition was adopted by the International Dyslexia Association Board of Directors on November 12, 2002 and copied from the Tennessee Branch of IDA's Resource Directory. This definition is also used by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Dyslexia varies in degree of severity. The prognosis depends on the severity of the disability, specific patterns of strengths and weaknesses, and the appropriateness of the interventions. It is not a result of lack of motivation (although frustration in not being able to succeed can cause a person to “give up.”) or low intelligence. It is generally inherited and appears in families.
The word dyslexia comes from the Greek language and means poor language. Individuals with dyslexia have trouble with reading, writing, spelling and/or math although they have the ability and have had opportunities to learn. Individuals with dyslexia can learn; they just learn in a different way. Often these individuals have highly talented, creative, and productive minds.