Future Research Recent research findings have lead to further questions about the origins, diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities. In one current study, children with early language disorders are being studied to determine what role language disorders may play in the development of reading disabilities. Further research, using noninvasive neuroimaging techniques, into the structure, function, and development of the brain in children and adults with and without learning disabilities. This research will help us to better understand how the brain learns language, reading, writing, mathematical and social skills. Further studies of the role of genetics in the development of learning disabilities.
Recent findings indicate a possible genetic marker for reading disability, or dyslexia.
Further study could serve to establish an early identification methodology for reading disability. Scientists agree that we need a better understanding of how learning disabilities develop over time. In another, boys and girls with learning disabilities are being followed through puberty to determine the effect of endocrinologic changes on their learning skills. Studies now underway focus on identifying the most useful and productive methods of treatment and intervention for different types of learning disabilities at different times in a child's development. In some of these studies, twin pairs of disabled readers are being monitored to determine which teaching interventions are most helpful.