Main Campus: Chesterfield, MO 63017 | 
Dysgraphia
Written expression disorder; Specific learning disorder with impairment in written expression
Dysgraphia is a childhood learning disorder that involves poor writing skills. It is also called disorder of written expression.
Causes
Dysgraphia is as common as other learning disorders.
A child can have dysgraphia only or along with other learning disabilities, such as:
-
Developmental coordination disorder
(includes poor handwriting)
Developmental coordination disorder
Developmental coordination disorder is a childhood disorder. It leads to poor coordination and clumsiness.
Read Article Now Book Mark Article - Expressive language disorder
-
Reading disorder
Reading disorder
Developmental reading disorder is a reading disability that occurs when the brain does not properly recognize and process certain symbols. It is also...
Read Article Now Book Mark Article -
ADHD
ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a problem caused by the presence of 1 or more of these findings: not being able to focus, being ov...
Read Article Now Book Mark Article
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Errors in grammar and punctuation
- Poor handwriting
- Poor spelling
- Poorly organized writing
-
Has to say words aloud when writing
Exams and Tests
Other causes of learning disabilities must be ruled out before the diagnosis can be confirmed.
Treatment
Special (remedial) education is the best approach to this type of disorder.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The degree of recovery depends on the severity of the disorder. Improvement is often seen after treatment.
Possible Complications
Complications that may occur include:
- Learning problems
- Low self-esteem
- Problems with socializing
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Parents who are concerned about their child's writing ability should have their child tested by educational professionals.
Prevention
Learning disorders often run in families. Affected or potentially affected families should make every effort to recognize problems early. Intervention can begin as early as preschool or kindergarten.
References
Kelly DP, Natale MJ. Neurodevelopmental function and dysfunction in the school-age child. In: Kliegman RM, Stanton BF, St. Geme JW, Schor NF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics . 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 32.
Szklut SE, Philibert DB. Learning disabilities and developmental coordination disorder. In: Umphred DA, Burton GU, Lazaro RT, Roller ML, eds. Umphred's Neurological Rehabilitation . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Mosby; 2013:chap 14.
Review Date: 11/12/2016
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
