Which is a main characteristic of dyslexia?

Dyslexia is primarily characterized by difficulties with word recognition. Individuals with dyslexia often struggle with the ability to accurately and fluently read words. This may manifest as problems with decoding, which involves translating printed text into spoken language, making it challenging to recognize familiar words or to accurately sound out unknown words. This core deficit in word recognition can lead to difficulties in reading comprehension and overall literacy, which are hallmark features of dyslexia.

While difficulties in areas such as math problems, oral communication, and listening skills can occur in individuals with dyslexia, they are not defining characteristics of the disorder. Math difficulties, for example, are often more related to dyscalculia, a different learning difference. Listening skills may be affected due to secondary issues arising from struggling with reading, but they are not directly linked to dyslexia itself. Thus, the focus on word recognition captures the essence of what dyslexia entails.