In general, a learning disability constitutes a condition which affects learning and intelligence across all areas of life, whereas a learning difficulty constitutes a condition which creates an obstacle to a specific form of learning, but does not affect the overall IQ of an individual.

What are learning difficulties?

A Learning Difficulty is a type of Special Education Needs, which affects areas of learning, such as reading, writing, spelling, mathematics etc. There are several levels of Learning Difficulties, such as: Specific Learning Difficulty - a particular difficulty in learning to read, write, spell etc.

Are learning disabilities and learning difficulties such as dyslexia the same?

Learning disability is often confused with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or ADHD. Mencap describes dyslexia as a “learning difficulty” because, unlike learning disability, it does not affect intellect.