Teenage Learning disabilities can have serious consequences for teens, such as poor academic performance, low self-esteem, social isolation, and emotional problems. If left untreated, learning disabilities can also limit a teen’s future opportunities and career choices. To help teens with learning disabilities, parents should look for signs and symptoms, get professional diagnosis and intervention, and support them at home and school.
A teen residential treatment center can be a good option for treatment. It can provide teens with intensive and individualized care from qualified professionals. Key Healthcare is one of the best residential treatment centers for teens with learning disabilities in the US. It has a comprehensive program that meets the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of teens with learning disabilities. It also helps teens learn coping skills, self-confidence, and resilience to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
By reading this guide, you will learn more about the causes, types, and effects of learning disabilities in teens, as well as the benefits of residential treatment at Key Healthcare. You will also find useful tips and resources to help your teen cope with their learning disability and thrive in life.
Teenage Learning Disabilities and Special Needs
The term ’learning disabilities’ refers to a group of developmental disorders that can significantly impair a person’s ability to learn new things. Learning disabilities or special needs that are not addressed may lead children to struggle with speaking, writing, reading, comprehending information, paying attention, remembering things, completing mathematical calculations, or communicating.
These conditions are referred to as neuro diversities, which means that they are conditions where the brain works differently. This perspective of a learning disorder helps to empower the individual and reminds society that for the proper inclusion of all, society has to adjust.
Types of Untreated Teenage Learning Disabilities and Special Needs
Learning disabilities and special needs typically manifest at a young age and are often diagnosed during a person’s school years, as learning is the primary focus at school. However, it is essential to remember that teenagers with learning disabilities and special needs are just as great as normal teenagers. They just have to be understood and taught in ways that are appropriate for their learning styles.
Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities aren’t always obvious, but there are some warning symptoms that your child may require assistance with. This broad term refers to various learning and thinking differences that affect how the brain processes, receives, stores, and disseminates information. Remember that children or teenagers grow and learn at different paces. Below are some of the most common learning disabilities.
Specific Teenage Learning Disorder in Reading (Dyslexia)
Is a language-processing disorder that affects how spoken or written language is understood and used. Teenagers with dyslexia typically struggle to read accurately and fluently. As a result, it can decrease their vocabulary development and lead to problems with reading comprehension, grammar, and other language skills problems.
Specific Learning Disorder in Mathematics (Dyscalculia)
This learning difficulty revolves around mathematical literacy and numeracy. Teens with dyscalculia have difficulty learning mathematical concepts and numerical reasoning. This means that they will struggle with tasks such as numerical organization, counting money, telling time, applying mathematical formulas, conducting mental math calculations, and other mathematical management skills later in life.
Specific Learning Disorder in Written Expression (Dysgraphia)
This learning disorder describes a problem with written expression and may create both unreadable text and passages that are not coherent or understandable. This can physically present with a cramped pencil grip, illegible handwriting, inconsistent spacing, difficulty writing in a straight line, and poor spelling and grammar usage. Writing would be difficult and time-consuming, causing frustration and stress for teens with dysgraphia.
Teenage Auditory Processing Disorder
A teenage auditory processing disorder refers to issues with how the brain understands any auditory input (anything that the teen can hear). Teens with auditory processing disorder frequently miss details in a conversation, struggle to follow spoken directions, or need clarification on the order of sounds in certain words. This is often because, in an auditory processing disorder, the individual will hear everything and struggle to filter through this information to know what to attend to. This means they might be listening to a bird that suddenly started chirping and missed part of your instruction.
Teenage Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Teen Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) is a disorder that affects the parts of the brain involved with focusing, planning, and carrying out tasks. Teenagers with ADHD have differences in brain development and activity that affect their executive functioning which involves attention, working memory, planning and organization, inhibition, and impulse control. ADHD can impact a teen’s school performance and their relationships.
Adolescent ADHD symptoms differ depending on the subtype (inattentive, hyperactive, or combined). ADHD symptoms do present differently in girls and it is common for them to not receive a diagnosis. Since ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder and therefore usually diagnosed before the age of 12, it is more difficult to receive this diagnosis as an adult. Here is some more information about the different subtypes.
Inattentive Type
Teens suffering from the inattentive form of ADHD are easily distracted, have difficulty concentrating, and may fail to complete tasks such as schoolwork, chores, etc. The inattentive ADHD type includes a wide range of symptoms, including being absent-minded or forgetful, overlooking important details, losing track of their belongings, and avoiding activities that require extended mental effort. The most common presentation of the inattentive type is difficulty in maintaining focused attention.
Hyperactive Type
Hyperactive teenagers are often restless, struggle to remain seated, and are easily bored. They may have difficulty with inhibiting the impulse to speak, interrupting others, remaining silent, and struggling with self-control. This type of ADHD is more easily identified and diagnosed in children and men. Hyperactivity often presents as heightened sensory seeking and difficulty with impulse control.
Combined Type
Individuals with combined-type ADHD exhibit a combination of all the symptoms listed above. Having combined type ADHD does not automatically imply that ADHD is more severe than someone with predominantly inattentive or predominantly hyperactive ADHD. If a teen has combined type ADHD, their symptoms are more likely to be equally distributed between the two types.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Teenage Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. The precise cause of ASD is unknown, however, there are possible causal factors such as genetic predisposition and environmental factors. ASD is seen on a spectrum because it can affect a child’s social skills, communication, and behavior in differing ways. Understanding each individual’s profile is important when it comes to supporting them.
Communication Difficulties
The development of communication skills may be delayed in a child with ASD. It is common for children to present as non-verbal and at times non-responsive to parents trying to engage with them. A delay in communication skills is one of the more commonly noticed symptoms and ways to access early diagnosis and support. These communication differences may shift over time with the correct interventions, however, they will not fully dissipate and even teens with ASD show difficulty with communicating.
Social Interaction Challenges
Social interaction can be affected in a variety of ways. There may be barriers to social interactions if there are many communication or language difficulties, some individuals are not motivated or interested in engaging with other people and prefer to keep to themselves, and others may prefer to interact with a specific type of people, for example, younger or older individuals.
Repetitive Behaviors
A repetitive behavior, or ‘stimming’ is common in individuals with ASD. These motions often help them regulate, feel safe, or express something. Unless the behavior is causing them harm it is usually helpful to allow them to engage in it. For example, a child lining up their dolls or toy cars and repeatedly fluttering or clapping their hands. This behavior is then communicating something and allowing the child a way to regulate their emotions.
Sensory Sensitivities
Sensory input may be seen in a child with ASD. These sensitivities could be too much noise, certain textures, or tastes. An individual can be sensory seeking (they look for more sensory input) or sensory avoidant (they withdraw from a lot of sensory input).
Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD)
An intellectual developmental disorder is a condition that causes significant limitations in both adaptive behavior and cognitive functioning. Cognitive delays, delays in adaptive skills, and language delays are the common presenting symptoms and signs. Developmental delays vary according to the level of the disorder and the cause.
Mild IDD
Individuals with mild intellectual developmental disorders have a lower full-scale IQ score and difficulties in the communication and independent living domains. Teens with mild ID may experience difficulty with academic learning and associated tasks. Furthermore, they need help with decision-making and financial management. These individuals need guidance with complex tasks. The good thing is that they can develop social skills and vocational skills enough to support themselves.
Moderate IDD
A moderate IDD means that the full-scale IQ falls lower than a mild IDD. Teens with moderate ID have a limited understanding of their social interactions and social judgment however, they can still learn social skills. They can even have successful friendships and relationships. The key thing to remember is that they need supervision and assistance in tasks you would not consider “simple.” Plus, they need a supportive environment for learning.
Severe IDD
Teenagers with severe IDD can talk about simple things and develop habits. However, they have trouble reading and have little understanding of money, time, and numbers. Sometimes, they also exhibit maladaptive behavior as they struggle to understand the consequences of their actions and can be prone to self-harm behaviors.
Profound IDD
Individuals with profound IDD experience barriers in all domains and require full-time care and support. These individuals enjoy spending time with loved ones and with favored activities.
Symptoms and Impact of Untreated Learning Disabilities and Special Needs in Teenagers
Teenagers with learning disabilities often present with these symptoms earlier in childhood. The earlier these difficulties are identified and supported, the better it is for the individual. However, if the difficulty has only been identified in the teenage years, intervention is still beneficial and will support them.
If no support is implemented then there are significant impacts that can be experienced by the individual. These challenges are often long-lasting and will influence them throughout their lifetime.
Academic Challenges
Untreated learning disabilities will often lead to academic challenges because they require support to learn and develop new knowledge and skills.
Struggles with Reading, Writing, and Math
Teenagers with learning disabilities often struggle with reading, writing, and computing. They find it hard to excel at school because of these challenges and require accommodations to remove the barriers and allow them to reach their potential. Some of these accommodations could be a scribe, a reader, or extra time.
Poor Performance in School
While the typical teenage rebelliousness against working at school is normal, if a learning disorder is present there may be more to this behavior. Sometimes feeling left behind and helpless during a lesson impacts a teen’s motivation, self-esteem, and willingness to keep trying. This can lead them to develop a resistant attitude toward school and learning in general.
Reduced Interest in Learning
The amount of effort and energy that is required when learning in a school environment is quite high. This is a challenge to all teenagers, however, it may be more of a challenge to one with a learning disability. This extra challenge can remove any of the high points or enjoyableness of learning because the teen constantly feels as though they are failing. Reduced interest in learning may be a sign of a learning disability. It would be important to note other difficulties present before using this presentation as a definite sign of a learning disability.
Social and Emotional Issues
Learning disabilities don’t only affect a person’s understanding of numbers, speech, and written language. They can also impact a teen’s social skills and emotional health in the following ways.
Low Self-Esteem
Learning disabilities can negatively impact a teenager’s self-esteem. When an individual finds it difficult to complete tasks (such as school work) when their peers are managing to understand and even excel, it can make them feel less than or not good enough. These feelings create negative self-beliefs which create low self-esteem.
Anxiety and Depression
Low self-esteem, difficulty at school, and strained social skills can lead to a lowered mood and negative thoughts. These behaviors may lead to teen depression and anxiety. Depending on their level of independence and support needs, their quality of life can also lead to emotional distress.
Difficulty Making Friends
Many learning disabilities affect social skill development, which are learned skills. However, teens with learning disabilities can have successful friendships and romantic relationships. With the correct intervention and support, they can learn some of these skills and implement them to their benefit.
Behavioral Difficulties
A learning disability may result in behavioral difficulties. Learning disabilities may be co-occurring with other emotional and social conditions, therefore, it is helpful to gain early intervention and assistance with these presentations.
Aggression
Teens with learning disabilities who struggle with social skills may have pent-up frustration. They may also experience sensory overload which can lead to sensory meltdowns which can be aggressive. Misunderstanding social cues, lower self-awareness, and limited social cognition may increase the likelihood of teen aggressive behaviors.
Defiance
Some teenagers with learning disabilities struggle with planning, organization, and time management. It makes it hard for them to complete or commit to a task. As a result, it leads to a presentation of teen defiant behavior, for example, they’d refuse to do in-class tasks and follow classroom rules.
Substance Abuse
Teens with learning disabilities may turn to substance abuse to cope with the negative emotions and thoughts they are experiencing. There is an increased chance that an unsupportive learning environment will lead to a teenager leaving the schooling system early, often leaving them at risk of substance abuse.
Risky Behavior
As impulsivity and poor inhibition are common with learning disabilities there is a higher chance that teens with a learning disability will engage in teen risky behaviors. Their social interactions, tendency to not think of consequences, and drive to gain acceptance and approval leave these teens vulnerable to peer pressure and other dangerous behaviors such as substance use, promiscuity, and unsafe sexual activities, etc.
Causes and Risk Factors of Untreated Learning Disabilities and Special Needs in Teenagers
Knowing the effects of learning disabilities on teens may lead you to wonder what the cause of the condition is. By knowing what causes the condition you can further your understanding of the nature of the condition and how to support your child.
Genetics and Hereditary
Research emphasizes the strong hereditary nature of learning disorders. Therefore, if you have a family history of learning disabilities and your teen is showing signs of one, there is a high likelihood of there being a learning disability present.
Other genetically linked disorders such as Down Syndrome have co-morbid learning difficulties.
Prenatal and Perinatal Factors
There are environmental factors that can impact a child both in utero and in infancy. These can be related to parental experiences and behaviors, such as a traumatic experience during pregnancy or the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy as well as exposure to environmental toxins or pollutants soon after birth. The nutrition of the mother, fetus, and newborn can impact the development of the brain as well. Therefore, many different environmental factors during pregnancy and infancy can cause a learning disability to develop.
Brain Injury or Illness
As learning disorders are found in the working of the brain, any injury or illness that affects the brain can lead to a developmental delay or learning disorder. The physical well-being of the infant at birth, such as low birth weight or newborn jaundice, can also add to the possibility that a learning disability may develop.
Diagnosis and Assessment of Untreated Learning Disabilities and Special Needs in Teenagers
Although these symptoms are observable behaviors, simply noticing them is not enough to form a diagnosis. These disorders must be diagnosed by the relevant medical professionals after the appropriate evaluations and assessments. These could include:
Medical History and Physical Exam
One of the first steps of diagnosis will be a full background interview. This will gather information from what the pregnancy was like, the birth itself, early development, medical history, family history, any academic or schooling information, etc. This is an in-depth interview to gather as much information about the child as possible.
If relevant a physical exam may take place to assess for sensory limitations such as hearing or sight and overall physical well-being.
Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations
A neuropsychological assessment includes a cognitive component that explores specific cognitive skills such as verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.
If a general or educational psychological assessment is conducted then it will include the above-mentioned cognitive component. They also include a component that assesses the individual’s academic potential and current ability. Some of the assessments that are used for this component are the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement and the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children.
This assessment would also include an emotional and social component to ensure that the individual is seen and valued holistically. Assessments such as Child Behavior Checklist or Behavior Assessment System for Children– 3 could be used in this component.
Treatment and Management of Untreated Learning Disabilities and Special Needs in Teenagers
Untreated learning disabilities and special needs can have a significant impact on a teenager’s academic performance, social life, and overall well-being. Therefore, early intervention and support are encouraged.
Key Healthcare is a leading provider of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for teens with learning disabilities. ACT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy that helps teens cope with negative thoughts and emotions, and develop flexible and positive behaviors. ACT teaches teens to accept their feelings and thoughts without judging them and to commit to actions that align with their values and goals. Key Healthcare has helped many teens with learning disabilities improve their self-esteem, academic performance, social skills, and mental health through ACT.
Educational Interventions
Educational interventions are structured activities or strategies to improve academic performance and help students learn. These interventions can include academic tutoring, study skills training, and specialized reading programs.
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
An IEP is a legal document that specifies the educational goals, accommodations, and services that a teenager with a learning disability has access to. The IEP is established by a team of teachers, guardians, and skilled professionals. It is reviewed annually to ensure that teenage students’ needs are being met.
Qualifying for Special Education
To qualify for special education services, students must have a disability that significantly impacts their academic performance. This disability can be physical, emotional, or cognitive. The process for qualifying for special education services can vary by state or school district but typically involves an evaluation by a team of professionals and a set of recommendations are made.
Response to Intervention (RTI)
RTI is a multi-tiered approach to identifying and supporting students with learning and behavioral needs. The RTI process involves providing increasingly intensive interventions to students struggling academically or behaviorally.
Accommodations and Modifications
Accommodations and modifications are changes made to the learning environment or curriculum to help students with disabilities receive the same opportunities as their peers. Accommodations may include extended time on tests, preferential seating, or the use of assistive technology. Modifications may include changes to the curriculum or assignments, such as simplifying the reading level of a text or providing alternative assignments.
Behavioral Interventions
Behavioral interventions aim to change behavior by modifying the environment or consequences of behavior. They can address various behavioral issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and behavioral disorders.
Behavioral Therapy
A cognitive-behavioral type of therapy focuses on changing negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to negative emotions and behaviors. It involves helping individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts, develop more adaptive ways of thinking, and practice new behaviors.
Social Skills Training
Social skills training is another behavioral intervention focusing on improving social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and problem-solving. It involves teaching individuals new social skills through modeling, role-playing, and feedback.
Parent Training
Parent training is a type of behavioral intervention that aims to improve parenting skills and increase positive parent-child interactions. It involves teaching parents effective strategies for managing their child’s behavior, improving communication with their child, and fostering positive relationships. This type of intervention can be particularly effective for children with behavioral issues or developmental disabilities.
Key Healthcare not only uses ACT to support the teenager, but it also offers a parent-focused program within the ACT framework. The program helps parents who have teens with learning disabilities learn skills such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation. Through this program, parents can boost their mental health, increase their parenting effectiveness, and foster their teens’ academic and social success.
Medications
The relevant medical practitioner may recommend a medicinal treatment option to support an individual with a learning disorder. It is important to ensure these medications are taken according to prescribed instructions.
Stimulants for ADHD
Stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall are commonly prescribed to help improve focus and attention. These medications are particularly effective for individuals with ADHD as they increase concentration and attention while decreasing hyperactive and impulsive actions.
Antidepressants for Anxiety and Depression
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are one of the medications that doctors most commonly prescribe to treat depression and anxiety disorders. These medications are not habit-forming, meaning they do not usually lead to dependence.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Alternative and complementary therapies refer to non-traditional approaches to healthcare that can be used in conjunction with, or instead of, conventional medical treatments. Some examples of alternative and complementary therapies include mindfulness and meditation, yoga and exercise, and nutrition and supplements.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation involve focusing on the present moment, without judgment, to cultivate awareness and relaxation. These practices have been shown to have various health benefits, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, improving sleep quality, and even reducing chronic pain.
Yoga and Exercise
Teen Yoga is a physical practice that combines movement, breath, and mindfulness to promote strength, flexibility, and relaxation. Exercise, in general, can also have a range of health benefits, including improving cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and promoting mental well-being.
Nutrition and Supplements
Nutrition and supplements can also be used as alternative or complementary therapies. A balanced and healthy diet can help prevent and manage a range of health conditions, while supplements can support specific areas of health or fill nutrient gaps in the diet.
Legal and Ethical Issues in Untreated Learning Disabilities and Special Needs in Teenagers
Untreated learning disabilities and special needs in teenagers can present several legal and ethical issues, including the right to education and accommodations, discrimination and stigma, informed consent and confidentiality, and guardianship and legal representation.
Right to Education and Accommodations
The right to education and accommodations is protected by federal law, specifically the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This law requires public schools to provide appropriate accommodations and services to students with disabilities, including individualized education plans (IEPs) to ensure they can access free and appropriate education.
Discrimination and Stigma
Discrimination and stigma can also concern teenagers with untreated learning disabilities and special needs. They may face discrimination regarding employment, housing, and other areas of life, as well as stigma and negative attitudes from peers, educators, and others.
Informed Consent and Confidentiality
Informed consent and confidentiality are important considerations when working with teenagers with learning disabilities and special needs. These individuals have the right to be informed about their healthcare, so they’ll be provided with the opportunity to consent to any treatments or interventions held at Key Healthcare. Maintaining confidentiality and protecting their privacy while ensuring that necessary information is shared only with the involved persons is also important.
Guardianship and Legal Representation
Guardianship and legal representation may be necessary for teenagers with more severe disabilities or those who are unable to make decisions for themselves. In these cases, a guardian may need to be appointed to make decisions on their behalf, and legal representation may be necessary to ensure their rights are protected.
Resources and Support for Families and Individuals with Learning Disabilities and Special Needs
Families and individuals with learning disabilities and special needs can benefit from various resources and support, including national and local organizations, educational and clinical programs, and online communities and forums.
National and Local Organizations
National and local organizations, such as the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA), Autism Society, and the Down Syndrome Association, can provide information, advocacy, and support for families and individuals with learning disabilities and special needs. These organizations may offer resources such as support groups, training and workshops, and referral services to help families connect with local services and providers.
Educational and Clinical Programs
Educational and clinical programs can also provide resources and support for families and individuals with learning disabilities and special needs. These may include specialized schools, tutoring services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and behavioral therapy. Programs like these can help individuals with learning disabilities and special needs develop important skills and strategies to cope.
Online Communities and Forums
Online communities and forums can also be valuable resources for families and individuals with learning disabilities and special needs. These communities may offer a platform for individuals to connect with others with similar experiences, share information and resources, and provide emotional support. Examples of online communities and forums include Understood.org, LD Online, and MyAutismTeam.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to identify and treat learning disabilities and special needs in teenagers. These conditions can significantly impact a young person’s academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Fortunately, early intervention and support can make a significant difference in helping individuals with disabilities reach their full potential.
By providing early intervention and support, parents can help young people with disabilities overcome challenges and achieve their goals. As parents, advocating for inclusive education and promoting awareness and understanding of disabilities creates a more just society.
Let us all work towards creating a more accessible and inclusive world for individuals with disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
‘Learning disability’ refers to various learning and thinking differences that affect how the brain processes, receives, stores, and disseminates information.
Some common signs of a learning disability in teenagers may include difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, math, memory, organization, and time management. Other signs may include low self-esteem, high frustration, increased anxiety, and avoidance of reading or writing activities.
Teenagers have to go through a series of exams and evaluations like physical exams, neuropsychological evaluations, and cognitive assessments to get diagnosed.
Yes, untreated learning disabilities and special needs can lead to a range of health problems. People with learning disabilities or special needs may be at higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety due to the challenges they may face in their everyday lives. Additionally, individuals with untreated learning disabilities or special needs may be at risk of experiencing social isolation, which can lead to further health problems.
Some of the long-term effects of untreated learning disabilities and special needs include low self-esteem and employment difficulties. As they struggle to build relationships with family and friends, they may have low self-esteem. Also, they may struggle to find and maintain a job that they want to apply for.
Teenagers with learning disabilities can have a hard time communicating with peers as they may not express themselves fully due to fear of rejection and judgment. They may also self-isolate if they feel embarrassed about their situation.
Yes. Article 24 under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities states that persons with disabilities have the freedom to engage in all areas of education, including college, on a fair basis, with necessary adjustments and equal support.
There are three types of accommodations that are available to teenagers with learning disabilities at school. These are classroom, assignment, and examination accommodations. They may be allowed to record classroom lectures, be assisted in tasks, and do oral exams if applicable.
Parents and caregivers can support teenagers by being their support system. Check if your teens are receiving proper accommodations and services from their respective schools. Praise and encouragement will also help develop coping strategies for academic and social challenges.
Medications can be prescribed by medical professionals to manage symptoms of ADHD, dysgraphia, APD, and other special needs.
Yes, there are alternative or complementary therapies that can help manage the symptoms of learning disabilities and special needs. Some examples include meditation, yoga, exercise, and healthy supplements.
There are legal protections that declare the rights of teenagers with learning disabilities. These are the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the American Disabilities Act (ADA). These laws ensure that there is no discrimination in terms of benefits, education, and services against persons with learning disabilities.
