The common starting point for classification in Australia has been the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. This article addresses that need, as well as locates SLD in a multidisciplinary framework. Every practitioner should be aware of this diagnosis and be equipped with the tools to recognise it. However, unrecognised SLD contributes to many adult mental health presentations. Many psychologists prefer working with adults, and often regard SLD as a childhood issue and perhaps beyond their jurisdiction. Currently, these disorders are placed in their own discrete diagnostic ‘silos’, based on pre-existing disciplines, but a more integrated and triangulated approach may be necessary. We need a holistic approach to their definition, assessment and prognosis. There is also a high level of co-occurrence between them, with individuals likely to experience more than one type of these types of disorders. Neurodevelopmental disorders appear early in life and feature a strong genetic or familial origin.

It is commonly known as phonological dyslexia, which means, ‘a disorder of reading and spelling’, but this makes up only one component of the difficulties that may be encountered. Specific learning disability (SLD) is the most prevalent of the neurodevelopmental disorders.

Prevalent, but often difficult to pin down

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