Learning can be described as the relatively permanent change in behavior caused by experience or training. We as individuals are constantly learning through our experiences. However, in this process of learning there can be several hindrances that occur in the form of learning disabilities (LD). Learning disability accordingly to DSM-5 can be defined as retardation, disorder or delayed development that may be manifested in language, speech, mathematical, or motor skills and it is not due to any reliably demonstrable neurological or physical defect.
Learning can be described as the relatively permanent change in behavior caused by experience or training. We as individuals are constantly learning through our experiences. However, in this process of learning there can be several hindrances that occur in the form of learning disabilities (LD).
Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects handwriting and fine motor skill. It interferes with spelling, word spacing, and putting general thoughts on paper. It makes the process of writing slow and the written product difficult to read. The act of forming letters requires so much effort that affected individuals often forget what they wanted to say in the first place and hence develop hatred towards writing.
Dysgraphia is usually identified when a child learns to write but it can remain hidden until adulthood, particularly in mild cases. In elementary school settings, it is estimated that approximately four percent of children suffer from dysgraphia.
Common indicators of dysgraphia are as follows,
Trouble forming letters or spacing words consistently;
Awkward or painful grip on the pencil;
Difficulty following a line or staying within a margin;
Trouble with sentence structure or following rules of grammar when writing but not when speaking;
Difficulty organizing or articulating thoughts on paper;
Noticeable difference between spoken and written understanding of a topic.
I noticed my first symptoms of Dysgraphia ever since I started learning how to write. When I was in my third grade, my handwriting was so illegible and my parents were recommended an Occupational Therapist to evaluate for dysgraphia and receive therapy for it. I learned a lot from my intense keyboarding classes that I was enrolled in during Middle school. I am an expert keyboarder. I can type much faster than I can write at this point.Gouri Krishnan, Freelance Content Writer, Switzerland
Dysgraphia generally manifests in one of the three following forms,
•Dyslexic dysgraphia: In this form, spontaneously written text i.e. writing that hasn’t been traced or copied is most strongly affected and is mostly illegible.
•Motor dysgraphia: Mostly affects fine motor skills such as finger tapping, tying up shoelace etc. All forms of writing and drawing skills are far below average.
•Special dysgraphia: This type affects the special relationship between the writing itself and medium on which it is written. However, finger tapping and spelling skills are normal. Dysgraphia can be assessed through tests like, Dysgraphia Symptom Test for Children and Dysgraphia Symptom Test for Adults. These tests usually included writing components such as coping out sentences or answering brief essay questions as well as a fine motor component in which reflexes and motor speed are tested.
There is often no cure for dysgraphia. However, practicing letter formation drills, fixing correct grips on pencils and using handwriting specific training programs can help with this condition. In order to deal with dysgraphia, it is critical that this disability gets evaluated and diagnosed early in life. This ensures a good prognosis of the disorder.