Writing Disorders

What is a Writing Disorder

Writing disorders are classified under language disorders because it represents an expressive language task which requires the integration of multiple language modalities in addition to the visual motor and visual perceptual modalities.

Dysgraphia

This is a term used to describe any problems with the writing process, the execution of writing, and/or the finished product. The writing process requires skills in the transcription of the words, a motor skill, as well as the cognitive-linguistic elements of writing such as processing, sequencing, memory, spelling and other language based modalities such as syntax.

The finished product involves a series of skills incorporating both cognitive and language based skills such as thought organization, expression of thoughts, word choice, spelling skills, and sentence construction skills including grammar. Individuals with dysgraphia will demonstrate any combination of deficits across all 5 domains of language as well as deficits in visual perceptual and/or visual motor skills. If the problem is in the area of the writing process, deficits will most likely be in the areas of semantics and pragmatics. If the deficits exist in the finished written product, there may be issues in any one or combination of all 5 domains of language.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Language disorders present differently at different ages and stages of development. They also present differently based on whether they are developmental in nature or acquired. When normal language and/or speech milestones are not reached there may be cause for concern. Knowledge of these developmental milestones can assist in determining if there should be cause for concern. There are some common characteristics that can be seen as predictors of children who are at risk for any type of speech and/or language delays. These predictors include:

Co-Morbidities

Language delays and disorders are hallmark features of a number of developmental delays, behavioral issues, learning disabilities, and other medical conditions.

Risk Factors