Mental Disorders and Learning Disabilities in Children and Adolescents: Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are estimated to affect 5% to 9% of US children. Risk factors include a family history of learning disabilities, environmental factors during gestation or birth, and social adversity. Individuals with learning disabilities may experience social exclusion and bullying, poor self-image, or underachievement. They may struggle with tasks and in settings that depend on reading, mathematical skills and reasoning, or written and verbal communication. The family physician often is the first to be approached by parents regarding learning delays in children. The initial evaluation should include a thorough history and physical examination for medical conditions and mental disorders that may manifest as or coexist with learning disabilities. Physicians should advise parents to request that the child's school administer tests for learning disabilities. Physicians should be aware of common tests used to assess for learning disabilities, understand the laws that support provision of special education, and recognize the main categories of learning disabilities. Interventions provided through an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan may include educational strategies, accommodations in test taking time or setting, speech or occupational therapy, and adaptive tools. Physicians should help connect families with children with learning disabilities with services and resources.