Learning Disabilities and Adhd

ADHD and Learning Disabilities in School Aged Children

The article by Czamara, Tiesler, Kohlbock et al. (2013) focuses on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia as the most common neuro-behavioral childhood disorders. 5% of school children are affected by these issues, while an estimated half of all children with ADHD present as LD students (learning disabled). The study examines the relationship between ADHD symptoms and learning disabilities in reading, spelling and math. The researchers found that students with ADHD were at a higher risk of presenting with math, reading and spelling learning disabilities compared to students without ADHD. The study showed that both ADHD and learning disorders are comorbid and likely the effect of the same underlying problem, though exactly what that problem or process is remains unclear.

Czamara et al. (2013) utilize numerous recent studies to support their research. These studies show that ADHD is often found among LD students and that there can be some confusion among teachers as to the best way to approach these students to help overcome learning obstacles and succeed in their schoolwork. However, few studies have actually compared the comorbidity of ADHD and LD and as Czamara et al. (2013) note, the ultimate cause of this comorbidity is unknown.

The study by Czamara et al. (2013) was a lengthy longitudinal study that took place over the course of 10 years and included a population of more than 4,000 children in Germany. The children were identified at birth using. Questionnaires were distributed at ages 1, 2, 4, 6 and 10 years of age, and outcome was measured according to the hyperactivity/inattention subscale of the SDQ. Children without signs of ADHD were used as a reference category. Statistical analysis was conducted in order to interpret the nature of the results. Overall, the study supplied clear quantitative evidence of strong correlation between ADHD and learning disorders.

How these disabilities affect the education of today's children is in the way in which the students are limited in their ability to engage with their lessons and school work. Because of the comorbidity and the clear linkage between ADHD and learning disabilities, there is a need to treat both symptoms as well as to identify the underlying causes of the issues. The longer they go untreated or even diagnosed, the longer the child goes without receiving the critical support he or she needs to succeed at school and effectively apply him or herself.

The study shows that it is imperative that educators understand that ADHD and LD are common signs of an underlying issue that must be better understood. Students who are identified as having ADHD or LD are likely to have both and not just one or the other. Teachers who do not take this into account will fail to provide the supports and guidance that such students need. Parents will also be unable to assist their children if diagnoses by school administrators are only half-accurate.