Dysgraphia
"Researchers estimate that between 5 - 20% of people have dysgraphia. The reason for the large, estimated range is because dysgraphia can often go undiagnosed"
Definition:
Dysgraphia is a neurological disorder characterised by impaired writing abilities. This condition affects handwriting, spelling, and sometimes the ability to put thoughts on paper.
People with dysgraphia often have difficulty with the motor skills required for writing and may struggle to organise their thoughts coherently in written form.
The disorder is not linked to intelligence, meaning individuals with dysgraphia can be highly intelligent and capable in many areas but find writing to be a significant challenge.
People with dysgraphia may experience frustration and anxiety related to writing tasks. They might avoid writing whenever possible, which can impact their academic and professional performance. The condition can present in various ways, including messy handwriting, inconsistent spacing, and difficulty with spelling and grammar.
For individuals on the autism spectrum who also have dysgraphia, these challenges may be compounded by other sensory and communication differences, making it even more crucial to provide targeted support.
Common Traits of Dysgraphia:
• Poor handwriting with inconsistent letter sizes and spacing
• Difficulty in writing coherent sentences and paragraphs
• Frequent spelling errors, even with familiar words
• Trouble with grammar and punctuation
• Slow writing speed and difficulty in copying text
• Avoidance of writing tasks and preference for verbal communication