Does Dyslexia Exist?

Dyslexia Assessment

Dyslexia, a learning difficulty affecting reading and spelling, has long sparked debate. Some people question whether dyslexia is real or simply a label for general reading struggles. The recent Delphi study (Carroll et al., 2025) helps clarify this discussion.

Why Do Some People Think Dyslexia Doesn't Exist?

In the past, public perception led to the idea that dyslexia not a real condition. This was based on the notion that children who were straggling with literacy skills were simply “stupid”. However, more recent research has shown that dyslexia is not related to intelligence.

Additionally, some critics argue that dyslexia is no different from general reading difficulties. For instance, Professor Julian Elliott describes dyslexia as a "meaningless label." He believes that rather than using specific labels, we should focus on improving the reading skills of all struggling readers.

Evidence Supporting Dyslexia's Existence

Despite these criticisms, significant scientific evidence supports dyslexia as a specific condition. Studies have found clear differences in the brain structures of people with dyslexia, especially in areas linked to language and reading. Genetics also play a role, with certain genes increasing the likelihood of having dyslexia.

The Delphi study, involving experts from different fields, further supports the idea that dyslexia is real. Experts agree dyslexia typically involves persistent problems with word reading spelling fluency, usually due to difficulties processing language sounds (phonological processing). They also highlight that dyslexia varies in terms of how it impacts an individual and it often appears alongside other conditions, such as ADHD and autism.

Conclusion

While discussions around the exact definition continue, scientific evidence and expert consensus strongly indicate dyslexia is a genuine condition. Recognising dyslexia as real helps ensure individuals access the right support, making a real difference in their lives.