Learning disabilities are disorders that affect the ability to learn and process information. They are due to genetic and/or neurobiological factors that alter brain functioning in a manner that affects one or more cognitive processes related to learning. Learning disabilities may be defined in practical, medical, and legal terms. The common theme in all three definitions is that a learning disability is a disorder in one or more basic psychological processes that may manifest itself as an imperfect ability in certain areas of learning, such as reading, written expression, or mathematics.

Some common types of learning disabilities include:

• Dyslexia: difficulty with reading
• Dyscalculia: difficulty with math
• Dysgraphia: difficulty with writing
• Auditory processing disorder: difficulty processing and making sense of sounds
• Language processing disorder: difficulty understanding spoken language
• Nonverbal learning disabilities: difficulty with nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions
• Visual perceptual/visual motor deficit: difficulty with visual perception and coordination

It is important to note that learning disabilities are not caused by inadequate parenting or lack of educational opportunity. They cannot be cured or fixed, but with appropriate support and intervention, people with learning disabilities can achieve success in school, at work, in relationships, and in the community. The most common treatment for learning disabilities is special education, which involves building on the childs abilities and strengths while correcting disabilities and weaknesses.