What is the Difference Between Learning Disability and Learning Difficulty?

The terms "learning disability" and "learning difficulty" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Here are the key differences between the two:

• Learning Disability: A learning disability is a condition that affects learning and intelligence across all areas of life. It is characterized by a reduced intellectual ability and difficulty with everyday activities, such as socializing or managing money, and affects someone for their whole life. Examples of learning disabilities include Down syndrome and Fragile X syndrome.
• Learning Difficulty: A learning difficulty constitutes a condition that creates an obstacle to a specific form of learning but does not affect the overall IQ of an individual. Learning difficulties are distinct from learning disabilities and are usually related to specific tasks or skills, such as reading, writing, or mathematics. Examples of learning difficulties include dyslexia, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyspraxia, and dyscalculia.

In summary, a learning disability affects learning and intelligence across all areas of life, while a learning difficulty is a specific obstacle to a particular form of learning. A learning disability is typically more severe and long-lasting, whereas a learning difficulty may be more manageable with appropriate support or accommodations.

Comparative Table: Learning Disability vs Learning Difficulty

學習障礙與學習困難的區別在於它們對學習和智力的影響。以下是兩者之間區別的概述：

學習障礙常見的示例包括唐氏症候群和自閉症光譜疾患。學習困難的示例包括閱讀、寫作和拼寫困難（如讀寫障礙）、數學困難（如計算障礙）和注意力障礙（如注意力不足過動症）。許多人可以透過對應對策克服學習困難，並在生活中找到有效解決方案。對於患有學習障礙和學習困難的人，可以採取以個人為本的支持步驟，以便他們獲得所需的進一步支持。