If DYS disorders affect one or more specific learning processes (reading, writing, arithmetic, spelling), they are almost always accompanied by psychological suffering. DYS children suffer from anxiety and fatigue, gradually altering their self-image and leading them into a dangerous de-constructive spiral. Fortunately, there are solutions to help them.
A negative view of their learning skills
Fundamental learning skills – reading, arithmetic, writing and spelling – are not natural, but are acquired through pedagogical actions that are the main objectives of the first years of school. Developmental learning disabilities (DYS disorders) cause difficulties that affect the acquisition of these skills:
- Written language: dyslexia and dysorthographia
- Arithmetic and numerical skills: dyscalculia
- Planning and pre-programming complex gestures: dyspraxia and dysgraphia.
But whatever the nature of the disorder, DYS children are victims of psychological suffering, of
anxiety
and fatigue: repeated failures build up a negative view of their skills in the affected area of learning.
The downward spiral of DYS children
Based on this assumption of incompetence, or at least a feeling of inferiority in relation to others, DYS children and adolescents will want to avoid the learning activity in question. A protective reflex to guard against failure, but also against criticism and possible mockery from their classmates. Obviously, this voluntary withdrawal has a significant influence on their ability to improve in the learning activity…
Once trapped in this downward spiral, DYS children become withdrawn – affecting both their social relationships and their self-image. In fact, did you know that self-image is built, on the one hand, by the perception of the gap between one’s skills and one’s ideals, and on the other hand, by the perception that one’s peers have of one’s own skills?
The role of psychological support
First of all, you should know that there are many books on children’s self-confidence that can enlighten you on the best way to support your DYS child, books aimed at both children and parents.
Then, by remaining attentive and listening to your child’s emotions, you’ll be able to better identify his underlying request and provide an appropriate response: is it sadness, anger, injustice, the need to be understood, to be reassured, etc.?
Of course, you can also ask for help from a professional on the Ora-Visio platform: specialized in learning disabilities, he or she will be able to welcome your child’s suffering and help him or her cope. But you can also consult a psychologist for yourself as a parent, to help you understand the situation and position yourself in relation to your child, so that you can offer him real psychological support on a daily basis.
Good to know: a single consultation is rarely enough to change the situation, but that doesn’t mean you have to engage in long-term therapy to get results.
