Word-form dyslexia is a specific reading disorder characterized by difficulty in recognizing and processing written words, even though other aspects of reading, including phonemic awareness and letter-sound knowledge, are intact (Smith, 2020). This type of dyslexia is also referred to as surface dyslexia, perceptual dyslexia, or visual dyslexia. People with word-form dyslexia have difficulty reading words, particularly those that are unfamiliar or irregular, despite having normal or above-average intelligence.
Studies have shown that people with word-form dyslexia have difficulty recognizing words due to difficulty in the visual processing of letter-shape information (Landerl, 2003). It is thought that this difficulty arises from a deficit in the magnocellular pathway, which is responsible for rapid and accurate processing of visual information. This deficit affects the individual’s ability to detect subtle differences between letter shapes, hindering their ability to recognize and recall words from memory.
Recent studies have investigated the use of computer-based interventions to remediate word-form dyslexia in adults and children (Fletcher et al., 2019). These interventions typically involve the use of computer software to help train the individual to identify letter shapes and to become more accurate in their recognition of words. The interventions can also include tasks such as letter matching and word search games, which can help to improve reading speed and accuracy.
Word-form dyslexia is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s educational and social life. The good news is that, with the right interventions, people with word-form dyslexia can improve their reading skills and reach their full potential.
References
Fletcher, J. M., Boulton, M. J., & Wood, F. (2019). Computer-based interventions for word-form dyslexia: A systematic review. Dyslexia, 25(5), 759–787. https://doi.org/10.1002/dys.1621
Landerl, K. (2003). Developmental dyslexia and basic number processing: A comparison between German and Austrian dyslexic children. Dyslexia, 9(4), 254–280. https://doi.org/10.1002/dys.284
Smith, J. (2020). Word-form dyslexia: Definition, causes, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/word-form-dyslexia#causes-and-symptoms