What is a common characteristic of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD)?

A significant characteristic of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) is the presence of a marked discrepancy between a person's intellectual capabilities and their academic performance. This discrepancy is a key factor in identifying SLD, as it indicates that despite potentially average or above-average intelligence, the individual faces challenges in learning and applying academic skills. This can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties in reading, writing, or math, where the individual’s performance in these areas does not align with their intellectual potential.

In contrast, having above-average academic performance in all subjects would not indicate a learning disability; rather, it suggests that a student is mastering the curriculum effectively. The absence of identifiable medical conditions can sometimes occur but is not a defining characteristic of SLD; in fact, some individuals with SLD may have co-occurring medical or psychological issues. Complete mastery of grade-level curriculum without support is antithetical to the concept of a learning disability, as SLD is characterized by the need for additional support or intervention due to these discrepancies in learning.