Study finds correlation between ADHD and reading disorders

Research recently published in the journal Cortex, shows that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and developmental reading disability (RD) are most likely linked.

The study found that children who experience difficulties reading also exhibit behavior closely associated with ADHD. However, researchers have no evidence as to why this occurs. They suggest that genetics may play a role in the correlation between the two disorders.

Officials measured the general cognitive ability, as well as processing speed and reading and language skills of pairs of twins. They sought to determine if genetics or environmental factors were the main influence on the correlation between both disorders.

Researchers suggest that studying how children with ADHD or reading disabilities process information may be an effective way to find a connection between the two disorders.

Dyslexia and dysgraphia are common forms of RD which can result in difficulties in learning the alphabet, distinguishing between similar sounds and spelling. Enrolling children into boarding schools can help those who suffer from these disorders learn social and behavioral skills geared toward academic success.