Dyslexia screening is sometimes administered in school settings for children who seem to be struggling with reading, writing and spelling. However, there are few standardized tests that are used across the United States that definitively identify children with this learning disability. In some circles, the existence of dyslexia in adults may even be debated, just as ADHD in adults is often down-played. Unfortunately, this in-fighting between departments has left many children and adults confused, downtrodden and unable to reach their full potential without a helping hand. Hopefully, new dyslexia tests that rely on brain scans can open the doorway to understanding.

In “Advances in early years screening for dyslexia in the United Kingdom” (2007), researchers discuss the dyslexia early screening test (DEST) and the cognitive profiling system (CoPS 1), which are both approved for use in the United States as well. By administering these dyslexia screening tests early, it’s believed that at-risk students can be identified before they even fail, thereby decreasing the possibility that these kids will develop emotional, behavioral and motivational issues. A number of educators who teach adults and children with learning disabilities say these two tests are the best options we have today, as long as they’re administered.

In 2009, scientist Jeffrey R. Gruen, M.D. received a $5.2 million grant to further his research on the genetic roots of the dyslexia adult learning disability. In his studies, Gruen is busy comparing the complete genomes of 1,000 fluent readers and 1,000 dyslexic children to see exactly which genes play a hand in reading difficulties. Over the past decade, scientists have found that gene mutations, particularly on the DCDC2 gene, are closely linked with dyslexia. Dr. Gruen adds that the ultimate goal is “the creation of a simple, inexpensive dyslexia screening test that would apply to the general American population.”

Critics argue that dyslexia screening is largely subjective and that it’s futile to distinguish “adults with dyslexia” from “adults who have difficulty reading.” They add that saddling someone with “an adult learning disability” can actually further hinder their development or expose them to discrimination. However, researchers have also found that a number of individuals flourish once they learn about other adult learning styles that they may benefit from. Perhaps some of the biological arguments for dyslexia will settle the score once and for all.

Beth Kaminski is a leading expert in how to end panic attacks and has been publishing lots of information on the anxiety disorder medications for years now.

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