By Varsha Seshadri
What is dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia, also known as developmental dyscalculia (DD) is a learning disability affecting one’s math skills. Specifically, people with dyscalculia can struggle with basic math skills, such as small versus large and abstract math. This condition is about as common as dyslexia, an issue with reading and comprehension. Both dyslexia and dyscalculia fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity. Some other names for dyscalculia include:
● Mathematics learning disorder
● Mathematics learning disability
● Number dyslexia
● Math dyslexia
In this, it’s important to note that the last two names for dyscalculia can be misleading. In addition, some adults may have dyscalculia and while being completely unaware of it.
Signs and Symptoms of Dyscalculia
The two hallmarks of dyscalculia are trouble memorizing math-related things and the use of immature methods to solve basic arithmetic problems. There are also several signs and symptoms of dyscalculia, which include:
● Grasping meaning of quantities
● Ability to recognize that a number in its written out form is the same as its numeral form (e.g. 6 is the same as six)
● Remembering math facts, likes times tables and formulas
● Counting money
● Estimating time (this is different from time blindness seen in ADHD)
● Judging speed or distance
● Understanding the logic behind math
● Holding numbers in their head while solving math problems
It’s important to recognize that the symptoms can vary from person to person. Somebody may have trouble with math at an early age, while another might only find troubles during adolescence. So, there isn’t a typical age for diagnosing dyscalculia.
Causes of Dyscalculia
While dyscalculia doesn’t have one specific cause, there are many things that might contribute to somebody having it, like genetics. As dyscalculia runs in families, it’s clear genetics have a role. In addition, brain imaging studies show a developmental difference in those who
have dyscalculia and those who don’t, specifically in the areas which control learning skills. These tests don’t just show weaknesses, but also strengths.
How is dyscalculia diagnosed?
Dyscalculia can be diagnosed using an evaluation. These may be offered at schools or psychologists offices. While there are tests the evaluators will give for dyscalculia, they also test for multiple other skills, because people with dyscalculia can struggle with things like reading or working memory.
What can schools do to help?
After receiving a diagnosis (or identification), students can receive an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) that comes with accommodations. These help students who are disabled and are mandatory by the law to follow. Some students may get an individualized math class, but IEPs or 504s depend on the student’s needs.
Connection to Mental Health- Math Anxiety
Dyscalculia can be related to a condition known as math anxiety. This means that someone who has dyscalculia may feel anxiety doing math problems. The fear of failing any math-related task haunts people with dyscalculia. Math anxiety can also stem from environmental factors, like attitudes towards math. Addressing this often requires a multifaceted approach.
References
Ansari, D. (n.d.). What is dyscalculia? Understood. Retrieved December 29, 2024, from https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-dyscalculia
Dyscalculia. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved December 29, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23949-dyscalculia
Luttenberger, S., Wimmer, S., & Paechter, M. (2018). Spotlight on math anxiety. Psychology research and behavior management, 11, 311–322.
Comments