What is Dyslexia? More common than most people realise, affecting about one in ten people.

What is Dyslexia

Dyslexia is more common than most people realise, affecting about one in ten people. Research has shown that it is largely inherited and affects more males than females. Contrary to popular belief it is not a 'middle class' disease, having no respect for social class or level of intelligence. Dyslexia can cause real problems in school, resulting in poor marks and under achievement in spite of a lot of effort. In children it is characterised by the widening gap between their level of intelligence and their performance in reading, spelling and sometimes maths, in spite of normal methods of teaching. They often have problems with learning multiplication tables, often reverse letters and numbers, and normally have problems with organising themselves and remembering instructions. It can result in much frustration, teasing and sometimes poor behaviour. In adults it can cause problems in the work place, particularly if there is a need to write reports, take messages, deal with numbers or take examinations for promotion.

Dyslexia is identified by psychological assessment. This involves taking an IQ test, tests of reading and spelling and additional diagnostic tests. Once identified by proper assessment, the effects of dyslexia can be lessened by specialist tuition. Reading, spelling and mathematics can be improved, and training in word-processing can help with essay writing and the production of longer pieces of written work. Extra time as well as other special arrangements can sometimes be arranged for examinations.

For further information, contact :-

Michael Biddulph BSc. M.Sc. Dip.Sp.Ed. CPsychol.
Educational Psychologist ~ Chartered Psychologist
Telephone: 01392 876040
[From outside the UK ~ Telephone: +44 [0]1392 876040]
26A Elm Grove Road, Topsham, Exeter, Devon EX3 0EQ. UK