Specific Learning Disorder

DEFINITION

• Specific learning disorder (SLD) is a group of neurobiologically based neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by significant difficulties in the acquisition and use of:
  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Reasoning
  • Mathematical abilities
• Specific learning disorder is classified under the Neurodevelopmental Disorders section of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5)[1].
  
  • The key feature is difficulties learning and using academic skills, despite interventions being put in place to target those difficulties.
  • The difficulties may include: inaccurate or slow and effortful word reading; difficulty understanding the meaning of what is read; difficulties with spelling, written expression, mathematical reasoning; difficulties mastering number sense, number facts, or calculation.