Causes of Dyslexia
The causes of dyslexia are complex and involve both genetic and neurological factors. Research shows that dyslexia often runs in families, suggesting a strong hereditary link. Brain imaging studies have also revealed structural and functional differences in the brains of individuals with dyslexia. Particularly in areas responsible for language processing.
One of the primary causes of dyslexia is difficulty in phonological processing. The ability to hear, identify, and manipulate the individual sounds in words. This makes it harder to connect letters with their corresponding sounds, a fundamental skill in learning to read and spell. These difficulties are not the result of poor teaching or lack of effort, but rather how the brain handles language input.
Several genes have been linked to dyslexia, including DCDC2 and KIAA0319, which are involved in brain development. If a parent or sibling has dyslexia, the chances of a child also having it are significantly increased. However, genetic predisposition alone is not enough—environmental factors, teaching methods, and early intervention also play a role in how the condition manifests.
Neurological studies show that people with dyslexia may have differences in how the left hemisphere of the brain—specifically the areas involved in reading—functions. These brain differences can slow down the processing of written language, even in highly intelligent individuals. As a result, they may struggle to keep up with classroom tasks or exam time limits.
Contrary to outdated beliefs, dyslexia is not caused by vision problems. While some individuals may experience visual stress, the root issue is related to language processing, not eyesight. Interventions like coloured overlays or fonts may help with comfort, but they do not address the underlying phonological challenges.
Causes of Dyslexia
In South Africa, identifying the causes of dyslexia is often difficult due to limited access to diagnostic services. In many schools, teachers may not be trained to recognise signs of dyslexia, especially in multilingual environments where learners are navigating several languages at once. This creates a barrier to early support and may delay effective intervention.
Understanding the causes of dyslexia helps dispel harmful myths. It shifts the narrative from blame or underperformance to awareness and support. With better training, teacher resources, and parental involvement, children with dyslexia can learn to read and write with confidence and success.
[Next: Symptoms of Dyslexia →]
