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Mathematics disorder
Definition
Mathematics disorder is a condition in which a child's math ability is far below normal for their age, intelligence, and education.
Alternative Names
Developmental dyscalculia
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Children who have mathematics disorder may have trouble performing simple mathematical equations, such as counting and adding.
Mathematical disorder may appear with:
- Reading disorder
Symptoms
Early difficulties with arithmetic are noticed, as well as low scores in math classes and tests
Some of the problems seen include:
- Trouble with reading, writing, and copying numbers
- Problems counting and adding numbers, often making simple mistakes
- Difficulty telling the difference between addition and subtraction
- Problems understanding math symbols and word problems
- Unable to line up numbers properly to add, subtract, or multiply
- Unable to arrange numbers from smallest to largest, or the opposite
- Unable to understand graphs
Signs and tests
Standardized tests can assess the child's math ability. Grades and class performance can also help.
Treatment
The best treatment is remedial education. Other programs that have been successful include "Project Math" and teaching computer skills.
Support Groups
Expectations (prognosis)
Early intervention improves the chances of a better outcome.
Complications
The child may have problems in school, including behavior problems and loss of self-esteem. Some children with mathematics disorder become anxious or afraid when given math problems, making the problem even worse.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any concerns about your child's development.
Prevention
Affected families should make every effort to recognize existing problems early. Intervention may begin as early as kindergarten or elementary school.
References
Kelly DP. Patterns of Development and Function in the School-Aged Child. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 30.
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