Chapter 16 - My QEEG and neurofeedback story: in pursuit of the neuro-cognitive origins of learning disabilities

Abstract

Specific learning disabilities are characterized by unexpected learning problems despite average general learning ability. Individuals with learning disabilities were first noticed almost two centuries ago by neurologists. Early neurologists began to make the connection of the similarities between children with specific learning problems and individuals with localized brain injuries. Logically, neurologists concluded specific learning disabilities were “neurological” in origin, but erroneously concluded that specific learning disabilities were also caused by brain injuries. For most children with learning disabilities, as supported by research, there are no personal events of brain trauma or neurological insult, at least that are obvious. While significant advances have occurred within the field of learning disabilities regarding diagnostic identification, intervention approaches, and long-term prognosis, the underlying cause of learning disabilities is still not well-understood and continues to be generically described as “neurological” in origin.