What Is a Specific Learning Disorder

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A specific learning disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that causes persistent difficulty learning and using academic skills in reading, written expression, or mathematics. The difficulties are well below what would be expected for a person's age, they continue for at least six months even with targeted help, and they are not better explained by intellectual disability, vision or hearing problems, inadequate teaching, or not knowing the language of instruction. Specific learning disorders are often called learning disabilities. They are common, affecting an estimated 5 to 15 percent of school-aged children, and they often run in families. Many people with learning disorders are bright and capable, and the right supports can make a significant difference.

The Main Types

With Impairment in Reading

Difficulty with accurate or fluent word reading, decoding, or understanding what is read. Dyslexia is the most common form, as described on the page about what dyslexia is.

With Impairment in Written Expression

Difficulty with spelling, grammar and punctuation, or organizing ideas clearly in writing. Handwriting difficulties often occur alongside it, as described on the page about dysgraphia.

With Impairment in Mathematics

Difficulty with number sense, memorizing math facts, calculating accurately, or mathematical reasoning, sometimes called dyscalculia.

A person can have difficulties in more than one area.

What It Can Look Like

• Reading. Slow, effortful reading, guessing at words, avoiding reading aloud, or rereading to understand.
• Writing. Frequent spelling errors, short written work compared with spoken ideas, or difficulty organizing paragraphs.
• Math. Counting on fingers long after peers, mixing up operations, or difficulty understanding place value.
• Emotional effects. Frustration, avoidance of homework, feeling "stupid," or anxiety about school, as described on the page about test anxiety.

The page about signs your child may have a learning disability describes signs at different ages.

Why It Happens

Specific learning disorders reflect differences in how the brain processes certain kinds of information, such as the sounds in words or the relationships between numbers. Genetics play a strong role. They are not caused by laziness, low intelligence, or poor parenting, though access to good instruction affects how well a person can compensate.

What It Is Not

A learning disorder is not the same as a general learning delay or intellectual disability, and it does not mean a person is less intelligent. It is also not simply a lack of teaching. Diagnosis considers whether difficulties persist even with appropriate instruction and support. ADHD, anxiety, and language disorders can affect learning too, and they often occur alongside learning disorders, so a careful assessment looks at the whole picture.

Learning Disorders and Mental Health

Children and adults with learning disorders are more likely to experience anxiety, low self-esteem, and frustration, often because of repeated struggles and misunderstandings at school or work. Some also have attention difficulties. Addressing the emotional side of learning differences is an important part of support, alongside academic help. Therapy can help with school-related anxiety, self-esteem, and building a positive understanding of how a person learns.

How It Is Diagnosed and Supported

A specific learning disorder is diagnosed through a psychoeducational assessment, which usually includes cognitive testing, academic achievement testing, a review of school history, and input from parents and teachers. The assessment identifies strengths as well as challenges and leads to recommendations for school, home, and future learning, as described on the page about what a psychological assessment is.

Support may include specialized instruction, such as structured literacy for reading difficulties, classroom adaptations, assistive technology, and building self-advocacy skills. In BC, a diagnosis can support school planning, as described on the page about school supports in BC after a psychoeducational assessment.

Getting Support at Pacific Maple Psych Centre

If reading, writing, or math has been a struggle despite real effort, a psychoeducational assessment can help explain why and what will help.