Learning Disabilities | Rice Psychology
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Learning Disabilities

student with learning disabilities
It isn’t uncommon for children, adolescents and young adults to have some trouble completing class or homework assignments from time to time. Perhaps you remember your own trouble with a certain math problem or the difficulties you experienced with writing a specific essay. However, if an area of learning is a constant problem, it may be an indication of a learning disability.

A learning disability is an umbrella term used to categorize a wide array of learning problems. It’s important to understand that people with learning disabilities are not “lazy” or “dumb”, but simply have a different way of receiving and processing information. This can lead a person with a learning disability to experiencing problems when learning new information or skills and putting them to use. At Rice Psychology Group of Tampa, we believe that understanding and recognizing learning disabilities is a pivotal step in helping your loved ones beat their challenges and find success in life.

Recognizing Problems with Reading, Writing and Math

Learning disabilities in children, adolescents and young adults are generally categorized according to a school-area skill such as reading (dyslexia) writing (dysgraphia) and mathematics (dyscalculia).

  • Dyslexia – Learning disabilities in reading are categorized into two types. Basic reading problems happen when a person has trouble comprehending the link between sounds, letters and words. In contrast, reading comprehension problems happen when a person can’t understand the meaning of words, phrases or paragraphs. Some of the common signs of dyslexia include:
    • Difficulty identifying words or letters
    • Difficulty understanding words or letters
    • Trouble with reading speed and fluency
    • Problems with general vocabulary skills
  • Dysgraphia – This type of learning disability can involve the physical act of writing and the mental action of comprehending and synthesizing information. A basic writing disorder occurs when there’s a physical difficulty formulating words and letters while an expressive writing disorder is recognized as a difficulty with organizing thoughts on paper. The symptoms of dysgraphia can include:
    • Trouble with writing neatly and consistently
    • Trouble with correctly copying letters and words
    • Regular spelling difficulties
    • Trouble with organization and coherence
  • Dyscalculia – Learning disabilities with math can differ depending on a person’s other strengths and weaknesses. For example, a child’s math proficiency will be affected by problems such as language learning disabilities, visual disabilities or executive functioning disorders. A math learning disability can cause a person to struggle with the memorization and organization of mathematical “facts” such as 5 + 5 = 10 or 5 x 5 = 25. In addition, someone who exhibits signs of dyscalculia will have problems with counting principles and even telling time.

Rice Psychology Group Can Help

At Rice Psychology Group, we understand that a learning disability, no matter what type, can keep you or a loved one from finding success. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t improve with the right help. Our team of psychologists will evaluate you in a relaxing and comfortable setting to help you feel at ease and put you one step closer to the solution you’ve been waiting for. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us in Tampa today.

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