ADHD and Reading Difficulty

Learning Disabilities

The Nature of the Relationship between ADHD and Reading Difficulty

The Nature of the Relationship between ADHD and Reading Difficulty

There is substantial evidence showing a strong association between reading difficulty and attention problems in children and adolescents (reviewed by Greven, Rijsdijk, Asherson, and Plomin, 2012). This learning-related 'comorbidity' is believed to be primarily genetic in nature and several studies have presented evidence consistent with this theory. Since the association is so strong, some scientists have argued that the same genetic factor(s) is likely responsible.

Greven and colleagues (2012) agree that the evidence is indeed strong and therefore have a genetic origin, but not necessarily with the theory that a single stable genetic factor could be responsible. To support their argument, they point to evidence that suggests these traits are unstable over time. Although the authors discussed a recent twin study, which revealed these...
[ View Full Essay]