Disorder of written expression

Alternative Names: Written expression disorder

Disorder of written expression is a childhood condition that involves poor writing skills.

Causes of Disorder of written expression

Although no studies have been conducted to determine how common this disorder is, it is thought to be about as common as learning and reading disorders.

This disorder appears by itself or along with other learning disabilities, such as:

• Developmental coordination disorder
• Expressive language disorder
• Mathematics disorder
• Reading disorder

Disorder of written expression Symptoms

• Errors in grammar and punctuation
• Poor handwriting
• Poor spelling

Tests and Exams

Other causes of learning disabilities must be ruled out before the diagnosis can be confirmed.

Treatment of Disorder of written expression

Remedial education is the best approach to this type of disorder.

Prognosis (Outlook)

The degree of recovery depends on the severity of the disorder. Marked improvement is often seen after treatment.

Potential Complications

• Learning problems
• Low self-esteem
• Problems with socializing

When to Contact a Health Professional

Parents who are concerned about their child's language ability should have their child tested by educational professionals.

Prevention of Disorder of written expression

Learning disorders often run in families. Affected or potentially affected families should make every effort to recognize problems early. Intervention can begin as early as preschool or kindergarten.

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.

Review Date: 11/14/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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