Self-Reported Dyslexia Traits as Positive Predictors of Self-Reported Cognitive Failures in the Workplace.
James H Smith-Spark1, Madalyn Huang1,2
1School of Allied Health and Life Sciences, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK.
Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 27, 2025
Summary
This study found that self-reported dyslexia traits predict more frequent cognitive failures at work. Understanding these workplace difficulties can help improve support for dyslexic employees.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neurodiversity Studies
- Occupational Psychology
Background:
- Limited empirical data exists on how dyslexia-related cognitive challenges manifest in the workplace.
- Employers may have legal obligations to provide accommodations for neurodivergent employees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between self-reported dyslexia traits and the frequency of workplace cognitive failures.
- To explore the predictive power of dyslexia traits on specific cognitive domains within employment settings.
Main Methods:
- A pre-registered online survey was conducted with 400 UK employees.
- Data were collected using validated questionnaires on neurodivergent symptomatology, mental wellbeing, personality, and work routine.
- Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were employed to assess predictive relationships.
Main Results:
- Dyslexia traits significantly predicted a higher frequency of overall workplace cognitive failures, even after controlling for confounding variables.
- Self-reported dyslexia traits were weak but significant predictors of memory, attention, and action-related cognitive failures.
- The findings highlight a link between dyslexia traits and cognitive difficulties experienced in employment.
Conclusions:
- The study suggests that dyslexia traits are associated with increased cognitive failures in the workplace.
- Further research with formally diagnosed individuals is recommended to enhance understanding and support for dyslexic employees.
- These findings can inform the development of targeted workplace accommodations and interventions for individuals with dyslexia.
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