January 14, 2009

an expert’s reaction to comments made by Graham Stringer MP about dyslexia

Mr Stringer suggested that dyslexia is a ‘myth’ used to cover up evidence of poor teaching.

Prof Julie Williams, Professor of Neuropsychological Genetics at University of Cardiff, said:

“MPs sometimes say controversial things to highlight an issue, and I would agree with Graham Stringer’s call for sound teaching methods for all children. But in this case, his comments about dyslexia are simply wrong.

“As a scientist I look at the evidence, and there is strong evidence of a biological contribution to reading disabilities including dyslexia. There are many high quality studies showing that dyslexia runs in families. In 2005 our own research group identified a gene which increases the risk of developing dyslexia, and we are currently involved in a European study which will look for additional genes that increase susceptibility to the disorder.

“There is no doubt that many genes influence the risk of developing dyslexia, in combination with environmental factors. The MP’s suggestion that dyslexia is a ‘fiction’, and solely the result of poor teaching methods, is totally contradicted by a wealth of scientific evidence.”