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What Are the Characteristics of Dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia is an extensive collection of spatial and quantitative skill impairments caused by a difficulty in visually processing numbers and/or language processing problems. The disorder is life-long, and while there is no cure, steps can be taken to lessen its impact on the victim. According to the National Center for Learning Disabilities, the use of tools like graph paper to organize ideas and numbers, alternative approaches to math problems, and eliminating distractions all have proven to be effective ways of dealing with the disorder.

  1. Time and Direction Difficulties

    • A person suffering from dyscalculia may often be late for appointments or events and may have problems remembering schedules. They may also find it difficult to estimate how long a task will take to complete. Dyscalculia sufferers may be easily disoriented and have little or no sense of direction.

    Disparity between Verbal and Mathematical Abilities

    • Someone with dyscalculia may have excellent speaking and writing skills and still be unable to do even simple math problems or problem-solving tasks.

    Money Handling Difficulties

    • Another characteristic of dyscalculia is a difficulty in handling money. Keeping track of cash or a maintaining a bank account balance may require intense effort or outside assistance.

    Sequential Directions Difficulties

    • It may be difficult for a person with dyscalculia to keep a sequence of directions in order. In a problem requiring the use of mathematics, he may confuse the order of addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. In addition, tasks like making recipes, finding directions to a location, or other sequential directions may be lost on him.

    Musical Difficulties

    • A common characteristic of dyscalculia is an inability to grasp musical concepts, as well as difficulty in learning to read music or to play an instrument.

    Disparity between Mathematical Concepts and Specific Problems

    • A sufferer of dyscalculia may have a good understanding of general mathematical concepts, but when it comes to specific computational methods and/or organizational skills, he may be lost.

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