The co-occurrence of reading disorder and ADHD: epidemiology, treatment, psychosocial impact, and economic burden

J Learn Disabil. 2012 Nov-Dec;45(6):538-64. doi: 10.1177/0022219411407772. Epub 2011 Jul 14.

Abstract

The co-occurrence of reading disorder (RD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has received increasing attention. This review summarizes the epidemiology, treatment strategies, psychosocial impact, and economic burden associated with the co-occurrence of these conditions. Common genetic and neuropsychological deficits may partially explain the high degree of overlap between RD and ADHD. Children who face the additive problems of both disorders are at greater risk for academic failure, psychosocial consequences, and poor long-term outcomes that persist into adulthood. However, few studies have evaluated interventions targeted to this patient population, underscoring the importance of identifying effective multimodal treatments that address the neuropsychological deficits of RD and ADHD through carefully planned clinical research.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / complications*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / economics
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy
  • Child
  • Cost of Illness
  • Dyslexia / complications*
  • Dyslexia / economics
  • Dyslexia / epidemiology
  • Dyslexia / psychology
  • Dyslexia / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychology