Learning disorders result from a neurological malfunction that prevents the brain from properly processing information related to spoken or written language and mathematical calculations. Patients with learning disorders may have difficulty with reading, writing or mathematics. Their ability to listen or speak may also be impacted, and they may have difficulty coordinating movements or paying attention to stimuli. Between 2 and 10 percent of the general population has a learning disorder, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

Learning involves four major processes. Problems with any of these processes can result in a learning disorder:

• Input. Information is brought to the brain primarily through the eyes and ears. Problems with visual or auditory perception can cause a learning disorder.
  
  
• Integration. Once the information has entered the brain, it must be placed in the right order (sequenced), understood beyond its literal meaning (abstraction) and integrated into complete thought concepts (organization). A failure in any of these processes can result in a learning disorder.
  
  
• Memory. Learning depends on three types of memory: holding onto pieces of information until they are properly integrated into a full thought or concept (working memory), storing and retaining information for a short period of time (short-term memory) and storing and retaining information for a long period of time (long-term memory). Damage to either auditory memory or visual memory can cause learning disorders.
  
  
• Output. The ability to communicate information through words (language output) or muscle activity, such as writing, drawing or gesturing (motor output). A language disability or motor disability can contribute to learning problems.

People with learning disorders often have average to above-average intelligence as measured by standardized testing. It typically is not apparent that a child has a learning disorder until the child begins school and achieves at a lower-than-expected level. Some students with learning disorders do not struggle until lessons become more difficult and sophisticated in the advanced grades.

Learning disorders are diagnosed when results of standardized testing show that an individual is below ability in reading, mathematics or writing when measured against expected levels given their age, schooling and intelligence level.

A person’s learning disorder cannot be cured, but can often be treated with specialized learning methods. These special education techniques can help patients to improve their ability to complete tasks in areas affected by the disorder. It is crucial that learning disorders are detected early so that a child can get help before the disorder begins to have a negative effect on the child’s development or self esteem.