Impact Of Dyslexia On Child Development

 

What is dyslexia? It is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder whose causes are not yet fully understood. But, research suggests that it is caused by genetical, environmental, and brain structures and functioning factors. Dyslexia is characterized by altered brain function, particularly in the left hemisphere which affects the development of phonological awareness, decoding, and reading comprehension. In individuals with dyslexia, the neural pathways responsible for processing words or written languages are disrupted, leading to difficulties with word recognition, spelling, and fluency. Infallible research has shown that individuals with dyslexia tend to have differences in brain structures, including reduced grey matter volume in the left occipito-temporal region, an area of the brain critical for reading. Dyslexia can significantly impact various aspects of child development. They include:

1. Reading and writing:

Dyslexia primarily affects reading and writing skills, leading to struggles with decoding, fluency, and comprehension. 

2. Language processing challenges:

Children with dyslexia may experience difficulties with language processing, including phonological awareness, syntax (sentence construction), and vocabulary.

3. Memory and learning challenges: 

Dyslexia can affect working memory, leading to difficulties with learning new information and retaining it in the brain.

4. Low self-esteem and confidence:

Children with dyslexia have low self-esteem and decreased confidence. Their inability to read and write leads to feelings of inadequacy and inferiority complexes.

5. Frustration and anxiety: 

Children with dyslexia may experience frustration and anxiety related to academic tasks, leading to emotional distress.

6. Poor social relationships and friendships:

Dyslexia can impact social relationships as the affected children may struggle to communicate effectively but in futility. They feel embarrassed about their communication difficulties.

7. Avoidance behaviours:

Children with dyslexia develop avoidance behaviours such as refusing to read and write, due to feelings of frustration or anxiety.

8. Acting out or disruptive behaviour: 

Frustration and emotional distress related to dyslexia can lead to acting out or disruptive behaviour. 

9. Attitudes of perfection or procrastination:

Children with dyslexia may develop perfectionist tendencies or attitudes or procrastinate due to fear of failure or embarrassment.

10. Academic underachievement:

Untreated dyslexia in children leads to academic underachievement, decreased graduation rates, and lower career aspirations.

11. Mental health concerns:

Dyslexia can increase the risk of developing mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety disorders, or substance abuse.

12. Social and emotional difficulties:

Dyslexia can impact social and emotional development, leading to difficulties with relationships, employments, and other social interactions.

Several international agencies have implemented proactive initiatives to address dyslexia. The UNESCO's Inclusive Education initiative promotes inclusive education, which emphasizes the importance of providing quality education to all children, including those with dyslexia. The UNESCO's Dyslexia Awareness initiative has created awareness across the world about dyslexia, its impact, and the importance of early identification, and interventions. The World Health Organization (WHO), under the auspices of its International Classification of Diseases (ICD) has developed and included dyslexia in the ICD, recognizing it as a distinct learning disorder which greatly hampers child's development. Moreso, the WHO's Mental Health Programmes address dyslexia as a component of mental health, emphasizing the need for early identification, interventions, and support. The UNICEF's Inclusive Education Programme aims to support children with dyslexia to access quality education. The UNICEF's Dyslexia-Friendly Materials has developed dyslexia-friendly materials such as books and educational resources, to support children with dyslexia. The European Union Dyslexia Policy has implemented policies to address dyslexia, including the development of dyslexia-friendly educational materials and teachers' training programmes. 

The European Union's Research Funding provided funding for research and dyslexia, aiming to improve understanding and develop effective interventions. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) raises awareness about dyslexia, its impact, and the importance of early identification and interventions. The IDA advocates for policies and practices that support individuals with dyslexia, including accommodation and assistive technology. The World Federation of Neurology's (WFN's) Dyslexia Guidelines develops guidelines for the diagnosis and management of dyslexia, emphasizing the importance of early identification, interventions, and multidisciplinary support. The WFN's Research and Education initiative promotes research and education on dyslexia, aiming to improve understanding and develop effective treatments. The US Government's Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that children with dyslexia are eligible for special education services and accommodation. The US Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires schools to provide reasonable accommodations for students with dyslexia. The US National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) funds research on dyslexia, including studies on its causes, diagnosis, and treatments. The US Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) provides guidance and support for schools and families on addressing dyslexia and other learning disabilities. Not only that, under the aegis of the US Dyslexia law and policies, many US State Governments have promulgated laws and policies to address dyslexia, including requirements for teachers' training, screening, and interventions. While these efforts aim to address the spate of dyslexia, there is still more work to be done to ensure that individuals with dyslexia receive the support and accommodations they need to succeed. 

In summary, dyslexia is a complex and often misunderstood and neglected learning disorder which clinically affects millions of children and adults across the world, posing significant challenges for their academic, social, and emotional well-being. By promoting awareness, understanding, and support, we can empower individuals with dyslexia to overcome obstacles, unlock their full potential, and thrive in all aspects of life unhindered.

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