A different way of thinking

There are two different ways of thinking.  Verbal conceptualization (thinking with words or with the sounds of words) and non-verbal conceptualization (picture thinking).  Most people use both types of thinking.

 Dyslexia is a product of thought and a special way of reacting to confusion.  It is not limited to reversals of letters and words.  All dyslexics are primarily picture thinkers.  They think with mental imagery, rather than using words, or internal dialogue (self-talk) in their minds.  Because this thinking is subliminal (faster than a person can recognize) most are not aware they are doing it. They are visual-spatial thinkers who are often hands-on learners

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The problems of ADD/ADHD (attention deficit disorder), dyscalculia (math problems), and dysgraphia (handwriting problems) are all classified as learning disabilities.  They appear to be different learning disabilities altogether however, after closely examining the root cause we find they are simply different faces of dyslexia.  

By thinking in images, dyslexics develop very creative imaginations.  If they are confused by something, they will mentally turn it around and look at it from all angles to solve the confusion.  This thought process enables them to develop many unique abilities and talents.  Dyslexics are creative, imaginative, artistic, musically gifted, athletically talented, and very intelligent.

This ability can also be the foundation for a learning disability. When confronted with a real object this thought process works.  But when dealing with symbols (all letters are symbols) or unreal objects, this unique thought process does not work.  It only causes more confusion.  This confusion leads to false perceptions, which then leads to mistakes (symptoms of a learning disability), then an emotional reaction will occur (frustration, low self-esteem), and finally the dyslexic will develop compulsive solutions.

Each dyslexic will develop his or her own compulsive solutions to get around these problems.  The alphabet song, memorizing, illegible handwriting to cover spelling errors, deception and avoidance, or even getting a parent to do the homework are just a few common compulsive solutions.  

Copyright 2012