What is the definition and characteristics of "Learning Disabilities" according to DSM IV?

Answer 1

A learning disability is a diagnosable, clinically significant difference between ability and achievement. Testing is used to determine the type of deficiency that exists and the severity of the deficiency. A learning disability can be best described as an inability to acquire or relate specific information. It is not a form of mental retardation or intelligence impairment. Learning disabilities can exist in various areas, such as math, reading, or writing. Some of the more common types of learning disabilities are arithmetic deficit, auditory processing, constructional dyspraxia, dsysgraphia, dyslexia, language comprehension, long term memory deficit, reading deficit, short term memory deficit, spatial organization, spelling dyspraxia, traumatic brain injury, visual processing and writing deficit. Some students may have combinations of these disabilities or have these disabilities in combination with social/emotional adjustment problems. Accommodation plans try to help compensate for specific deficits.

Answer 2

"When individuals demonstrate abilities below the level that would be expected given their age and grade level in school based upon an arbitrary gap, they may be diagnosed with this mental disorder which should be further specified according to the particular academic function affected"
Or..
" As measured by standard tests the child's inability to achieve an expected level of proficiency within a particular learning field i.e. mathematics, reading etc"

Not sure if that is what you are looking for, but I hope it helps! When it comes to definitions from the DSM-IV is best to have a hard copy.

Answer 3

What makes a Learning Disability is that an academic area of skill is significantly weaker than the person's overall ability to learn. In other words... someone of normal or better smarts who has difficulty with reading, writing, math, or nonverbal skills.

Here are some links to help you, including the one to the DSM-IV itself:

http://www.behavenet.com/capsules/disorders/ld.htm

http://www.psychologicaltesting.com/learning.htm

http://www.ncwc.edu/Offices/Student_Support/LD%20doc%20guidelines.html