Author: LDAO staff
Source: Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario, 2000

The most common disorder that co-exists with learning disabilities is attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many studies over the years have indicated a very strong co-morbidity of the two conditions but the exact percentage of overlap varies widely in these studies because of methodological inconsistencies. Studies of the families of children with either learning disabilities or ADHD indicate strong patterns of inheritance for both conditions, but also show that they are independent disorders.

ADHD and learning disabilities are two discrete disorders with distinct symptom clusters. However, some symptoms may be common to both disorders, including: disorganization, weak executive functioning, and inefficient use of strategies. Without careful assessment, distinguishing between ADHD and learning disabilities can be difficult because of overlapping symptoms and because some behaviours that may result from learning disabilities can look like ADHD symptoms. For example, individuals with central auditory processing deficits can appear inattentive, and students who have become discouraged due to learning problems may not stay on task or may appear distractible.

Assessments for ADHD and learning disabilities follow a different process, although both can be addressed in a multidisciplinary assessment. Psychoeducational testing by a registered psychologist or designated psychological associate is required to diagnose learning disabilities. Assessment for ADHD is usually through a clinical interview and review of developmental history, with the use of standard checklists and some cognitive tests being common.Diagnosis of ADHD is done by a pediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist.

It is important to distinguish between the two conditions because of different methods of treatment. Intervention for learning disabilities may involve academic skills instruction, the development of compensatory strategies and self-advocacy skills, and appropriate accommodations. Treatment for ADHD may include behavioural strategies, modifications to the learning environment, family counselling, and the use of specific medications such as Ritalin.

To conclude, ADHD is not considered a learning disability. A learning disability is a neurologically based disorder affecting the psychological processes necessary for learning. ADHD is an associated disorder that can interfere with the individual’s availability for learning. Assessment and treatment methods are different for the two conditions.