Is dyslexia hereditary?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) that affects a person’s ability to read, write, and spell but is not related to overall intelligence. The exact causes of dyslexia are still being studied, but there is a strong consensus among researchers that genetics plays a significant role in its development. When parents book assessments for their children, we often observe they show signs or characteristic traits of dyslexia themselves. In this blog post, we explore the question, ‘Is dyslexia hereditary?’, including how much of a role our genes play in its development, and how we can help dyslexic people and families.

Research has shown that dyslexia tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Here’s what we know about the genetic factors associated with dyslexia:

1. Family history

One of the clearest indicators we have of dyslexia’s heritable nature is a family history of the condition. Children with a dyslexic parent or sibling are more likely to be dyslexic themselves. This suggests that specific genetic factors may increase our likelihood of being dyslexic.

2. Twin studies

Twin studies have given us more insight into the genetic basis of dyslexia. Identical twins, who share 100% of their genes, are more likely to both be dyslexic if one twin is affected. In contrast, non-identical twins, who share about 50% of their genes, show a lower rate of both being dyslexic.

3. Identified candidate genes

Researchers have identified several candidate genes associated with dyslexia. Candidate genes are genes that research has shown are consistently present in people who share the same conditions or characteristics. Dyslexia candidate genes include genes related to brain development and language processing. Variations in these genes may contribute to a person’s chances of developing dyslexia.

4. Complex genetic inheritance

When exploring the question, ‘Is dyslexia hereditary?’, it’s important to note that dyslexia does not have a simple inheritance pattern. You are not guaranteed to be dyslexic if one or both of your parents are dyslexic. Researchers think it involves multiple genes, each having a small effect, which then builds up. This complex genetic interplay means we cannot predict dyslexia solely based on family history.

Genetics plays a significant role in dyslexia, but it is not the only factor. Environmental influences contribute to reading and wrtiing development, including:  

• early language exposure
• educational opportunities,

supportive interventions Dyslexia is not caused by laziness, lack of intelligence, or poor teaching. It is a neurological condition that affects the way the brain processes language, which makes reading and writing more challenging. Early diagnosis and personalised educational support are very important for dyslexic people to feel they can achieve their ambitions.

While researchers continue to study the causes of dyslexia, it’s important to focus on effective interventions and support for dyslexic people. With the right strategies, dyslexic people can overcome the challenges associated with dyslexia and succeed in their academic, work and personal lives.

Dyslexia is highly heritable, which means that a family history of dyslexia is more likely to mean a person develops dyslexia. This genetic basis is complex because it involves multiple genes with small effects. This complexity means that not everyone with a family history of dyslexia will be dyslexic, and some people with no family history may still develop dyslexia.

Understanding the genetic component of dyslexia can help families and educators be more aware and provide early interventions and support when needed. If you think your child may be dyslexic, a comprehensive assessment can provide valuable insights and recommendations to help them overcome reading and writing challenges and reach their full potential.

At Aim Forward, we specialise in providing accurate dyslexia diagnostic and needs assessments, as well as personalised coaching for dyslexic people.

A needs assessment is a relaxed discussion with one of our friendly assessors. Whether you have a diagnosis of dyslexia or not, a needs assessment can help you explore the areas you struggle with the most. Your assessor will help you better understand yourself, and help you create a personalised strategy to help you excel.

Explore our needs assessments.

Our diagnostic assessment can give you a dyslexia diagnosis. The process includes a chat with one of our assessors, a questionnaire and some tasks. Getting a diagnosis can help you access reasonable adjustments as well as support schemes. It can also help you understand how you learn and work to help you thrive.

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If you have dyslexia or traits of dyslexia, contact our knowledgeable team for more information about how we can help you.