LD and ADHD Learning Disabilities and Attention
Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
compiled by LDAO staff
The most common disorder that co-exists with learning disabilities
is attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many studies
over the years have indicated a very strong co-morbidity of the
two conditions but the exact percentage of overlap varies widely
in these studies because of methodological inconsistencies. Studies
of the families of children with either learning disabilities or
ADHD indicate strong patterns of inheritance for both conditions,
but also show that they are independent disorders.
ADHD and learning disabilities are two discrete disorders with
distinct symptom clusters. However, some symptoms may be common
to both disorders, including: disorganization, weak executive functioning,
and inefficient use of strategies.
Without careful assessment, distinguishing between ADHD and learning
disabilities can be difficult because of overlapping symptoms and
because some behaviours that may result from learning disabilities
can look like ADHD symptoms. For example, individuals with central
auditory processing deficits can appear inattentive, and students
who have become discouraged due to learning problems may not stay
on task or may appear distractible.
Assessments for ADHD and learning disabilities follow a different
process, although both can be addressed in a multidisciplinary assessment.
Psychoeducational testing by a registered psychologist or designated
psychological associate is required to diagnose learning disabilities.
Assessment for ADHD is usually through a clinical interview and
review of developmental history, with the use of standard checklists
and some cognitive tests being common. Diagnosis of ADHD is done
by a pediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist.
It is important to distinguish between the two conditions because
of different methods of treatment. Intervention for learning disabilities
may involve academic skills instruction, the development of compensatory
strategies and self-advocacy skills, and appropriate accommodations.
Treatment for ADHD may include behavioural strategies, modifications
to the learning environment, family counselling, and the use of
specific medications such as Ritalin.
To conclude, ADHD is not considered a learning disability. A learning
disability is a neurologically based disorder affecting the psychological
processes necessary for learning. ADHD is an associated disorder
that can interfere with the individual's availability for learning.
Assessment and treatment methods are different for the two conditions.
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