Dyslexia

Dyslexics cope with their problems in different ways. Some ways are good, but others only mask the problem. These are sometimes called compulsive solutions. They may help a dyslexic for the moment, but they do not help in the long run. In fact, they often make the problems worse, in that people do not receive the support they need.

Here are some compulsive solutions that many dyslexics rely on.

Memorizing

Miguel has trouble taking notes so he relies on his memory to get by. In school he tapes his classes. Later, he reviews the tapes. He memorizes every thing on them. On tests he writes what he remem bers from the tapes.

For Miguel, memorizing often works. But not always. Once he got sick and missed school for two weeks. He was too embarrassed to ask a friend to tape his classes. He couldn't catch up later. He ended up with poor grades for that term.

Using Others

Anthony is dyslexic, but he doesn't tell his friends. Instead, he uses them to get by. In school, he takes the same classes that they do. They study together, so Anthony learns the material Some friends even write papers for him. He lets them play his computer games in return.

Making Jokes

Tong uses humor to hide his dyslexia. He figures, “If I make a joke, it will take the pressure off. No one will notice that I can't read.”

Tong has become the class clown. When asked to read, he makes funny faces and gestures. The class always cracks up. Even some teachers laugh. But others do not. Tong's attempts to be funny often get him into trouble.