Dyslexia overdiagnosed and a 'construct' says educationalist

Sep 5 2005

According to a British professor dyslexia, an illness which afflicts millions of people is over diagnosed, and a "construct" with no scientific basis which had gained worldwide currency.

Julian Elliott, professor of education at Durham University in northern England, says it is not surprising that the widespread, yet wholly erroneous, belief that dyslexics are intellectually bright, but poor readers, has created an impassioned demand to be accorded a dyslexic label.

His article publicises a documentary on the emotive issue which is about to be aired, and says there is no proof that there are any teaching methods more appropriate to children diagnosed as dyslexic, than those simply classified as slow readers.

The definition of dyslexia is very broad and ranges from reading to writing and learning, and covers both literacy and numeracy.

According to experts, four percent of people suffer from a severe form of the condition, with another six percent suffering to a lesser extent, which makes it difficult to diagnose.

As a matter of course dyslexia specialists have rejected Elliot's claims as baseless and potentially damaging, and say dyslexia is an internationally recognised illness.

Laura Sercombe of the Dyslexic Institute has said it affects all races, all religions and, importantly, all ability levels, and not just the intelligent.

Sercombe says that for people seeking help, the first step on the road to recovery is the recognition that they are dyslexic.

She says Ellits comments are damaging and unhelpful.

Symptoms of the disorder can include problems with short-term memory, maths, concentration, personal organisation and sequencing.

As a rule school children diagnosed with dyslexia are given more time in exams.

According to the Dyslexia Institute the condition is biological and often runs in families.

The study is published in the current edition of the Times Educational Supplement.