Atypical beta-band effects in children with dyslexia in response to rhythmic audio-visual speech

Previous studies have reported atypical delta phase in children with dyslexia, and that delta phase modulates the amplitude of the beta-band response via delta-beta phase-amplitude coupling (PAC). Accordingly, the atypical delta-band effects in children with dyslexia may imply related atypical beta-band effects, particularly regarding delta-beta PAC. Our primary objective was to explore beta-band oscillations in children with and without dyslexia, to explore potentially atypical effects in the beta band in dyslexic children.

We collected EEG data during a rhythmic speech paradigm from 51 children (21 control; 30 dyslexia). We then assessed beta-band phase entrainment, beta-band angular velocity, beta-band power responses and delta-beta PAC.

We found significant beta-band phase entrainment for control children but not for dyslexic children. Furthermore, children with dyslexia exhibited significantly faster beta-band angular velocity and significantly greater beta-band power. Delta-beta PAC was comparable in both groups.

Atypical beta-band effects were observed in children with dyslexia. However, delta-beta PAC was comparable in both dyslexic and control children.

These findings offer further insights into the neurophysiological basis of atypical rhythmic speech processing by children with dyslexia, suggesting the involvement of a wide range of frequency bands.