Thoughts on the Definition of Dyslexia

Abstract

The International Dyslexia Association’s current definition of dyslexia was approved by its Board of Directors on November 12, 2002. After two decades of scientific inquiry into the nature of dyslexia, it is time to reconsider and potentially revise the definition in light of what has been learned. We propose a definition of dyslexia based on its essential nature. Dyslexia is a specific learning disability in reading at the word level. It involves difficulty with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and/or pseudoword reading. We also suggest that the definition should focus solely on dyslexia’s core features and should not include risk factors, potential secondary consequences, or other characteristics. Until those factors can reliably differentiate between those with and without dyslexia at an individual level, they should not be included in the definition.