What primary difficulties characterize dyslexia?

The primary difficulties that characterize dyslexia are related to word recognition and spelling. Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily affects an individual's ability to read, spell, and decode letters and words. Individuals with dyslexia may struggle with phonological processing, which involves the ability to recognize and manipulate the sounds in language. This can lead to challenges in accurately recognizing words and understanding their meanings. Additionally, spelling can pose significant difficulties due to the non-linear nature of language rules and the connections between sounds and letters.

The focus on word recognition and spelling reflects the core nature of dyslexia, which is distinct from other learning challenges that may pertain more to math skills, social interaction, or attention strategies. While individuals with dyslexia can also experience difficulties in these other areas, the defining features of dyslexia are rooted in reading and writing capabilities.