Dispelling Common Myths About Dyslexia
By Morgan Kimball
Dyslexia is often misunderstood, and many myths surround this learning difference. For individuals with dyslexia, these misconceptions can be frustrating and disheartening. One of the most pervasive myths is that dyslexia is a visual problem — that people with dyslexia “see things backward.” Let’s clear this up: Dyslexia is not a visual issue. People with dyslexia see letters and words just fine.
Individuals with dyslexia might indeed confuse letters like b and d or read the word “was” as “saw,” but this stems from challenges with directional confusion and processing, not from seeing words backward. For example, the brain may mix up the sequence of sounds and letters, leading to errors like swapping “who” and “how.” These challenges are rooted in language processing, not vision.
A study from the University of Albany (Vellutino, et. al., 1975) sheds light on this. Researchers asked students with and without dyslexia to reproduce unfamiliar Hebrew letters. Both groups performed equally well, proving that dyslexia is not caused by visual problems or backward perception of letters. To help dispel more myths, let’s dive into some of the most common misconceptions about dyslexia:
Myth #1: Dyslexia does not exist
Dyslexia is very real and has been extensively researched. Studies supported by the National Institutes of Health, along with fMRI brain scans, clearly show that dyslexia is a neurological difference. These scans reveal how the brain processes language differently in individuals with dyslexia.
Myth #2: Dyslexia is rare
Far from rare, dyslexia affects a significant portion of the population. According to the International Dyslexia Association, about 15–20% of people show signs of dyslexia, such as slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, or difficulty writing. Professor Sally Shaywitz, author of Overcoming Dyslexia, estimates that one in five children has a reading disability.
Myth #3: Dyslexia cannot be diagnosed until 3rd grade
Dyslexia can often be identified as early as five and a half years old by a trained professional. Teachers should be on the lookout for warning signs in kindergarten and first grade, such as trouble recognizing letters, blending sounds, or remembering simple words. Early intervention is critical because it is far more effective than waiting until a child begins to fail academically.
Myth #4: Students who struggle with reading in 1st grade will catch up naturally
This is a dangerous misconception. Research shows that only about 10% of first graders who struggle with reading will catch up without targeted intervention. Early reading problems are not a result of developmental delays. The sooner a child receives support, the better their chances of overcoming reading challenges.
The Importance of Understanding Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a common learning difference, yet the myths surrounding it create unnecessary barriers for those who experience it. By understanding the truth, we can better support individuals with dyslexia and create a more inclusive world.
If you found this blog helpful, share it with others to spread awareness. Together, we can dispel these myths and ensure that individuals with dyslexia receive the understanding and support they deserve.