What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and writing. While often associated with literacy difficulties, it is a life-long neurodivergent profile that stems from differences in how the brain processes language and information, presenting unique strengths alongside specific challenges.

A new understanding of dyslexia

Recent clarity has been reached through the Delphi consensus, which refined our understanding of how dyslexia manifests. It describes dyslexia as “a set of processing difficulties that affect the acquisition of reading and spelling”

The most commonly observed cognitive impairment in dyslexia is a difficulty in phonological processing (i.e. in phonological awareness, phonological processing speed or phonological memory). However, phonological difficulties do not fully explain the variability that is observed.
Working memory, orthographic skills and processing speed problems can also contribute to the impact of dyslexia.

What might dyslexia look like?

While every person is unique, there are features that may suggest a dyslexic profile:

Difficulties learning to read and spell despite adequate instruction.
Challenges with phonological awareness, such as rhyming or segmenting sounds.
Slow processing speed when dealing with written or spoken language.
Difficulties with working memory, such as following multi-step instructions.
Inconsistent spelling, even with high-frequency words.
Dyslexia frequently co-occurs with one or more other developmental difficulties including developmental language disorder, dyscalculia, ADHD, and developmental coordination disorder.

Individual profiles can change

Through different phases of life, the presentation of dyslexia and its challenges often changes. While early hurdles focus on decoding and spelling, older individuals may struggle more with the sheer volume of reading and writing required, as well as complex organisation and time management. Adaptive strategies become essential as the academic landscape evolves.

What causes dyslexia?

Dyslexia is biological in origin and often runs in families. It is caused by differences in how the brain developments and processes information, particularly in areas related to language. It is not caused by lack of effort, poor parenting, or environmental factors, but is a fundamental part of an individual's neurobiology.

Dyslexia and intelligence

There is no link between dyslexia and intelligence. Dyslexic individuals can be found at every level of the IQ spectrum. In fact, many people with dyslexia possess high levels of creativity, problem-solving skills, and innovative thinking. The difficulty lies specifically in the formal processing of written language, not in the child's underlying cognitive ability.

Looking beyond the difficulties

Understanding a unique profile means looking at the whole person, not just their literacy levels. Consider these questions:

What are their natural talents and interests?
In which environments do they thrive most?
How can we build their confidence through their strengths?

A Dyslexic thinker?

If you notice persistent difficulties with reading, writing, or organisation that seem out of step with general abilities, it may be time to seek a formal assessment. Identification is the first step toward understanding and provides the roadmap needed to unlock a person's full potential.

Based on the latest research

This information is grounded in the latest 2025 Delphi consensus and guidance from leading bodies like the British Dyslexia Association. Rebecca is committed to ensuring her practice reflects the most current evidence-based understanding of neurodiversity.