Specific Learning Disability (SpLD)

Learning disability is defined as the incomplete or delayed acquisition of reading, writing, and mathematics skills despite adequate ability and education¹.

Figure 1: Representation of a child with a specific learning disability.

Contrary to what is known, these children do not have mental retardation, on the contrary, it is seen in children with normal and high intelligence levels. This disease was first used in 1963 by the special educator Samuel Kirk. The disease, of varying severity, is thought to occur in 5% to 15% of school-aged children. Approximately 80% of these children have dyslexia, that is, a reading disorder3,4,8.

Although socioeconomic status, depression, and anxiety are effective, it is accepted that neurobiological causes are more effective. As for the etiology, the main factor is the inability to process information¹,².

There are problems in perception by the eye and ear, processing in the brain, and recording and expressing it. Studies show that genetic factors play important roles. Neuroanatomical studies indicate abnormalities in phonological processing and visual processing in the temporal lobe, mostly in the planum temporale just behind the auditory shell¹.

Figure 2: They have difficulty in reading the clocks.

Symptoms

  • Attention and focus on problems
  • Difficulty finding directions and confusing directions
  • Problem in communication
  • Difficulty finding words
  • Difficulty learning colors, numbers, and letters
  • Take action without thinking
  • Frequent clumsiness
  • Error in holding a pen
  • Time and space issues⁵

What are the types?

  • Dyslexia: Inability to separate spoken words into syllables, having difficulty in rhyming words even if they hear spoken words.
  • Dysgraphia: Difficulty writing thoughts, grammar, punctuation.
  • Dyscalculia: Difficulty with symbols and operations in mathematics, problems, memorization.
  • Aphasia: Difficulty expressing oneself 6,7 

Treatment

In a study examining zinc and vitamin B12 levels in children with specific learning disabilities, it was observed that the zinc level was very low compared to a child of the same age, but it was not related to B12 deficiency.

According to IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), these children can benefit from special education services and can benefit from Individualized Education.

According to the plan, their training can be sustained. There are no FDA-approved drugs. However, medication may be indicated for anxiety and hyperactivity⁷.

Specific learning disability is not mental retardation. People with this disorder have normal or superior intelligence. It can be solved with special training and exercises. What the family and relatives need to do is to show sufficient interest and patience.

References:

  1. KARAMAN, Dursun; KARA, Koray; DURUKAN, İbrahim , Anadolu Klinik Araştırmalar Dergisi. 2012, Cilt. 6 Sayı 4, s288-298. 11p.
  2. https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/ibufntd/issue/22932/245591
  3. Amerikan Psikiyatri Birliği. Ruhsal Bozuklukların Tanısal ve İstatistiksel El Kitabı, Beşinci Baskı . (DSM-5) Amerikan Psikiyatri Birliği Yayınları. 2013.
  4. https://www.adnancoban.com.tr/ozel-ogrenme-guclugu
  5. https://npistanbul.com/cocuk-ergen-psikiyatrisi/ogrenme-guclugu-nedir#:~:text=Her%20%C3%A7ocu%C4%9Fun%20%C3%B6%C4%9Frenme%20y%C3%B6ntemi%20farl%C4%B1l%C4%B1k,g%C3%BC%C3%A7l%C3%BC%C4%9F%C3%BC%20tedavisi%20edilebilir%20bir%20hastal%C4%B1kt%C4%B1r.
  6. https://yaseminaker.com/uzmanliklar/ozel-ogrenme-guclugu/
  7. https://psychiatry.org/patients-families/specific-learning-disorder/what-is-specific-learning-disorder#:~:text=Specific%20learning%20disorders%20are%20neurodevelopmental,expression%2C%20and%2For%20math.
  8. https://www.adcet.edu.au/oao/for-academics-and-teachers/what-is-a-specific-learning-disability

Figure References:

  1. https://www.aryarehabilitasyon.com/egitim-programimiz/ozgul-ogrenme-guclugu
  2. http://www.zirveozelegitim.com/sayfa-Ozgul-Ogrenme-guclugu-birimi-53.html

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