The Genetic Factors of Learning Disabilities

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The National Institute of Neurologic Disorders defines learning disorders as a; condition that either prevents or significantly hinders somebody from learning basic skills or information at the same rate as most people of the same age. It is important to note that this does not mean that the individual has less intelligence; it means that their brain or body is wired in a way that hinders or prevents development of a certain tasks. Many people often confuse learning disabilities with mental retardation but while both words describe similar conditions, the term learning disability and learning disorder are used to describe conditions that affect development in certain cognitive areas in otherwise healthy developed individuals. Millions of people are affected in differing severity throughout the world with specific neurologic based learning impairments. I chose to research learning disorders for two reasons. The first is because I myself am affected by one. At the age of 13, I was told that I suffered from a type of Dysgraphia disorder. Dysgraphia is a term that describes a broad group of disorders that cause difficulties in writing abilities. The disorder often manifests itself as difficulties with spelling, poor handwriting and trouble putting thoughts on paper. I have dealt with, and will continue to struggle with this disability for the rest of my life. Furthermore, I have found that by studying the disorder I have also made strides in dealing with my own cognitive shortcomings as well. The second reason I chose to study learning disabilities is because I have chosen to work towards a degree in education. A recent report by National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities states that nearly 15% of Americans are affected by so... ... middle of paper ... ...rican Journal of Human Genetics 72. (2003): 454-464. Web. 30 May 2010. O'Brien, Tracy. "Three Subtypes are Orthographic, Phonological, and Mixed." suite101.com. N.p., 28 Feb 2009. Web. 1 Jun 2010. Richardson, A.J. "Clinical trials of fatty acid treatment in ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and the autistic spectrum ." (2004): n. pag. Web. 1 Jun 2010. Wattendorf, Daniel. "Diagnosis and Management of Fragile X Syndrome." Am Fam Physician (2005): 111-113. Web. 30 May 2010. . Wijsman, Ellen. "Segregation Analysis of Phenotypic Components of Learning." Am. J. Hum. Genet. 67. (2000): 631-646. Print. World Health Organization "Fragile X syndrome Information." (2210): Web. 28 May 2010. .

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