What are the primary characteristics of dyslexia?

The primary characteristics of dyslexia center around specific challenges in word recognition and spelling difficulties. Individuals with dyslexia often struggle with accurately recognizing and decoding words, which can lead to challenges in reading fluency and comprehension. These difficulties stem from underlying issues in phonological processing, which is crucial for translating written language into spoken language.

While some individuals with dyslexia may exhibit strong verbal skills or particular strengths in other areas, the hallmark traits focus on the challenges with reading and spelling. Strong memory coupled with poor decoding abilities can be a characteristic in some cases, but it does not encapsulate the full scope of dyslexia. Therefore, understanding these core issues is vital for effective intervention and support strategies tailored to individuals with dyslexia.