Research into Issues for Adults with Dyslexia/Specific Learning Difficulties

A new book, “Self Fulfilment with Dyslexia: A Blueprint for Success”, by Margaret Malpas, MBE, will be available from 21 February 2017.

Being dyslexic is tough, it involves hard work with built in frustration, as tasks that others seem to sail through, prove difficult to master. This inspiring new book by Margaret Malpas, MBE, Joint Chair of the British Dyslexia Association, provides a road map to help dyslexic individuals to overcome and thrive.

Through interviews with dyslexic adults, it is clear that in spite of some persisting literacy difficulties, many have achieved successful life outcomes through determination, hard work, motivation and the encouragement of others.

In a field often dominated by research on what dyslexics find problematic and lists of their difficulties, this refreshing book focuses on the ten characteristics which successful dyslexic adults often share. The interview results indicated that understanding that you are dyslexic was often related to higher self-esteem. It is interesting to note that those dyslexics who believed that they have certain strengths because of their dyslexia, either as a neurological difference or due to pushing through the difficulties that come with being dyslexic, also reported higher self-esteem.

Many adult dyslexics also carry scars. The interviewed adults also reported lasting negative effects from lack of early identification and awareness of dyslexia when at school. Lasting impacts included poorer literacy outcomes, underachievement and memories of having been bullied at school.

Dyslexic individuals and those who support them are seeking answers to some key questions about what can be done help them to achieve their own potential. Crucially, how they can build the inner resolve and supportive factors in their lives to enable them to thrive? The results of this interview data provides some valuable insights, as well as highlighting 10 characteristics of successful dyslexic adults.

Further research into the extent to which deliberately focusing on and building these areas can influence future life outcomes, and further investigations with larger numbers of dyslexic adults, would be a positive focus for the future.

Dr. Kate Saunders, CEO, BDA.