Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disabilities. Despite its prevalence and decades of research, many myths persist about what Dyslexia is and how it impacts individuals. Shedding light on pervasive myths can help to ensure that individuals with Dyslexia receive the understanding and support they require to succeed. So, what are some of the commonly held myths surrounding Dyslexia?
Myth: Dyslexia Is Simply About Reversing Letters and Reading Words Backwards
Reality:
One of the most pervasive myths is that people with Dyslexia frequently reverse letters, like writing “b” instead of “d,” or see words backwards. Reversals are not, however, a defining feature of Dyslexia. Some individuals with Dyslexia exhibit letter reversals and some do not. In fact, in young children letter and number reversals can be common and are not considered unusual in the early years of primary school.
Myth: Dyslexia is Caused by Visual Difficulties
Reality:
Children and adolescents with Dyslexia are no more likely to have eye and vision difficulties than their peers. Whilst challenges with visual perception or visual processing can make reading difficult, Dyslexia is not caused by visual problems and cannot be corrected through visual aids such as using coloured lenses.
So, What is Dyslexia if it’s not a visual problem or about reversing letters?
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterised by difficulty with reading and spelling skills. Individuals with Dyslexia typically struggle with phonological processing which refers to the ability to break words into smaller sound units.
(Source: International Dyslexia Association. 2020)
Myth: Intelligent People Can’t Have Dyslexia
Reality:
Dyslexia impacts individuals with a range of cognitive abilities including those with average or above expected intellectual ability. Dyslexia is not an intellectual disability but it is a learning difference. Children and adolescents with Dyslexia often demonstrate strengths and talents in areas such as problem-solving, creativity and innovative thinking.
Myth: Dyslexia Only Occurs in the English Language
Reality:
Dyslexia occurs in different countries and in all languages. Research suggests people can experience Dyslexia regardless of the language they are learning to read. However, the severity of the challenges can vary depending on the complexity of the writing system in that language. Languages with more consistent letter-sound relationships may be easier for individuals with Dyslexia to learn than those with irregular spellings.
Myth: Dyslexia Only Affects Boys
Reality:
Research indicates that Dyslexia is prevalent in both males and females at comparable rates. One possible reason for the perception that more boys have Dyslexia is that boys can exhibit more externalizing behaviours in the classroom which draws attention and may lead to earlier testing and identification.
Myth: Dyslexia Only Affects Literacy Skills
Reality:
While reading and spelling difficulties are at the core of Dyslexia, the effects of Dyslexia can extend beyond these literacy skills. Children and adolescents with Dyslexia can experience challenges with other skills including notetaking, time management, following multi-step instructions and with processing information.
Butterfly Psychology for Kids conducts Dyslexia assessment and testing in Perth to identify Dyslexia in children and adolescents. For further information click here.
References:
The Myths and Truths of Dyslexia in Different Writing Systems. International Dyslexia Association. (2020). www.dyslexiaida.org
Quinn, J. M., & Wagner, R. K. (2015). Gender differences in reading impairment and in the identification of impaired readers: Results from a large-scale study of at-risk readers. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 48(4), 433–445.
7 Common Myths About Dyslexia. Understood. www.understood.org
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