Causes of Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects a person’s ability to read, write, and spell. It is most commonly caused by a difference in the way the brain processes language. Dyslexia is a neurological disorder that does not affect intelligence. While the exact cause of dyslexia is still unknown, it is believed to be linked to a genetic predisposition. A variety of environmental and environmental factors may also contribute to the development of dyslexia. This section will discuss the potential causes of dyslexia.
Genetic Factors
Research suggests that genetics plays an important role in the development of dyslexia. Dyslexia may be inherited, meaning it can run in families or passed on from one generation to another. If any family members (either on the mother’s or father’s side of the family) have dyslexia, it is more likely that their children will also have dyslexia. In addition, having relatives who are “right-brain dominant” (meaning they are creative and are strongly influenced by images and feelings) can also increase the risk of dyslexia.
An assessment conducted by an educational specialist such as a psychologist can help determine if genetics is playing a role in causing someone’s learning difficulties. If your child has been diagnosed with reading disorder and you suspect he/she might be genetically predisposed to it, ask your doctor for more information about genetic testing options available. Additionally, there are now genetic markers associated with reading disorders which could help identify those who are at risk before they experience difficulties learning how to read—allowing earlier diagnosis and interventions to prevent poor academic performance.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors that may influence the risk of developing dyslexia include medical complications during pregnancy and/or delivery, including low birth weight and preterm delivery. Other environmental factors that may play a role in dyslexia include malnutrition, exposure to environmental toxins or trauma.
Other environmental influences can increase the risk of developing dyslexia by changing the brain’s structure or function. These include lead exposure, hearing impairment, concussion, prematurity, and digital device usage. Lead exposure is known to affect development of neuronal processes involved in reading. Hearing impairments can have an impact on the development of language skills necessary for reading comprehension; a young person’s ability to process auditory information for learning is essential for mastering reading skills. Childhood concussions can affect cognitive functions related to reading; regional brain tissue changes caused by concussions are documented with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies being conducted hours or years after injury. Neurological damage caused by premature birth may also contribute to dyslexia; prematurity affects brain structure so differently than a child who was born full-term that it has been suggested as an independent factor in causing dyslexia. Finally, increased usage of digital devices is associated with an increased likelihood of reading difficulties; some theories suggest this could be due to decreased time spent engaging in activities such as shared book storytelling that stimulate early development of language and literacy skills necessary for successful acquisition of reading skill sets.
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