Nonverbal learning disabilities

Pages: 109-113
D. Dhanalakshmi (Department of Applied Psychology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India)

Nonverbal learning disability (NLD) is a distinct subtype of learning disabilities wherein the child may have average to above average verbal skills, but in conjunction with pronounced visual, motor, social and academic difficulties. This condition occurs in a small percentage of children but presents a significant challenge – one that often becomes more complex with time. Despite these concerns regarding NLD, or NLD as it is commonly known, awareness about it is relatively low. This lack of awareness has led to many children with NLD being unfairly accused of truancy and acting out or being wrongly diagnosed and treated for conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The current paper aimed to provide a detailed theoretical overview of NLD in order to generate awareness about it. The paper provides a detailed overview of this condition, its historical background and its clinical presentation. An elaboration of the biological correlates and their association to the manifested deficits is also provided. Certain basic guidelines for those dealing with children with NLD are provided as well.