On Learning Disabilities: 10 Myths You Should Unlearn About Dyslexia

Many people with dyslexia mistakenly believe they’re not smart, but that’s simply not true. This misconception often comes from comparing themselves to others, without realizing that everyone learns differently. Intelligence isn’t measured by a single skill or test—everyone has unique strengths and ways of processing information.

No two people learn the exact same way, and while schools and society have set standards for skills like reading, math, and problem-solving, these standards don’t capture the full range of human abilities. Focusing too much on these metrics can lead to overlooking the individual talents and potential each person holds.

Dyslexia, a learning disability that affects word recognition, spelling, and language processing, is one of those conditions that’s often misunderstood. Let’s debunk some common myths and shed light on the realities of dyslexia.

What Is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a neurological condition that influences how a person processes language, particularly in reading and spelling. It’s not about intelligence or the ability to see letters correctly—it’s about how the brain processes written words and sounds.

Many people think dyslexia means seeing things backward, but that’s not true. Dyslexic individuals often struggle with manipulating letters and sounds, especially in complex sentences. For example, reading a sentence like “The cat sat on the mat” can be challenging because the brain processes the sounds and letters differently.

Dyslexia occurs on a continuum, meaning it can range from mild to severe, and it affects about 1 in 5 people. Those with dyslexia may need varying levels of support to succeed, but they can absolutely achieve great things.

10 Myths About Dyslexia (+ The Facts)

Myth #1: Dyslexic people have low intelligence and have to try harder to read.
Fact: Dyslexia affects phonological processing, not IQ. People with dyslexia can have low, average, or high intelligence.

Myth #2: It’s a major sign of dyslexia when letters are reversed or written backward.
Fact: Letter reversals are common in early learning stages and are not a definitive sign of dyslexia.

Myth #3: Dyslexic people don’t see letters well.
Fact: Dyslexia is not a visual disability. It’s related to how the brain processes speech sounds, not how it sees letters.

Myth #4: You can cure dyslexia.
Fact: Dyslexia is not curable. However, with proper support and strategies, people with dyslexia can manage it effectively.

Myth #5: Dyslexia only affects people who speak, read, or learn in English.
Fact: Dyslexia is a neurological condition that can affect anyone, regardless of language. However, the impact may vary depending on the language’s phonological complexity.

Myth #6: Dyslexic people can’t be gifted because of their dyslexia.
Fact: Dyslexia doesn’t prevent someone from being gifted. Many dyslexic people are “twice exceptional,” meaning they are both gifted and have a learning disability.

Myth #7: If you give them enough time, they’ll outgrow it.
Fact: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition. It doesn’t go away with time, but with the right interventions, people can manage it effectively.

Myth #8: Dyslexic people will never learn to read.
Fact: With the right support, people with dyslexia can become proficient readers.

Myth #9: You got into Harvard? Do you really have dyslexia?
Fact: Dyslexic individuals can and do achieve great success, including attending prestigious schools. Their achievements don’t negate the challenges of dyslexia.

Myth #10: It doesn’t show up until elementary school.
Fact: Signs of dyslexia can appear as early as preschool, though they may become more noticeable in elementary school when reading demands increase.

Let’s Wrap This Up

Dyslexia is a neurological condition that doesn’t define a person’s intelligence or potential. With the right support, people with dyslexia can thrive in school, work, and life. It’s important to understand and unlearn these myths, so we can better support those with dyslexia and recognize their unique strengths.

I hope this helps!