What is Dyslexia primarily characterized by?

Dyslexia is primarily characterized by challenges with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. This often manifests as difficulties with reading and writing, where individuals may flip or swap letters or characters. This phenomenon may lead to misspellings or mispronunciations of words, making reading a labor-intensive process. While some individuals with dyslexia may experience other issues, such as difficulties with math or verbal communication, these are not defining characteristics of the condition.

The focus on the flipping or swapping of alphabet characters highlights the unique challenges faced by those with dyslexia, which distinguishes it from other learning disabilities that may not involve the same reading-specific difficulties. Understanding this core aspect of dyslexia is crucial for effective intervention and support in educational and therapeutic settings.