Children with dyslexia suffer from poor self-concept and self-esteem, and those attending mainstream schools, as opposed to special units for specific learning difficulties, suffer most of all.

A study found that children with dyslexia had a low opinion of themselves that went beyond their learning difficulties. They felt isolated and excluded in their schools and as many as half reported being bullied or teased by other children as a result of their dyslexia.

The implications suggest a need for schools to consider the emotional and social impact of dyslexia on children in mainstream schools. As well as early identification and treatment of the problem, schools need to consider the role of teachers and peers, self-esteem enhancement programmes, school ethos and an inclusive approach at cultural, policy and practice levels if these children’s needs are to be properly addressed.

Self concept and self esteem in developmental dyslexia: implications for teaching and learning by Neil Humphrey, Liverpool John Moores University