Nonverbal Learning Disability explained: the link to shunted hydrocephalus

Abstract

Accessible summary Children with a Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD) resulting from shunted hydrocephalus and spina bifida face many difficulties not experienced by those with a language learning disability. As they grow older and more autonomy is expected, friendships became harder to sustain and daily life can be full of fear if the nonverbal learning disability is not identified and managed. This paper explains the theorised cause of nonverbal learning disability – damage to right hemisphere white matter or myelin. Damage is believed to cause problems with planning, organisation, time management, problem‐solving, decision‐making and friendships, and the mismatch with articulate speech and a good vocabulary causes a functional profile that is difficult for educationists or nonmedical readers to understand. By linking the medical condition to the learning disability, this paper aims to reduce misunderstanding and false accusations of laziness. Implications and the Way Forward provide early guidelines to families, educators and others. The ‘final common pathway’ that links shunted hydrocephalus to nonverbal learning disability is explained in comprehensible language. SummaryA nonverbal learning disability is believed to be caused by damage, disorder or destruction of neuronal white matter in the brain’s right hemisphere and may be seen in persons experiencing a wide range of neurological diseases such as hydrocephalus and other types of brain injury (Harnadek & Rourke 1994). This article probes the relationship between shunted hydrocephalus and nonverbal learning disability. Description of hydrocephalus and intelligence associated with hydrocephalus concludes with explication of the ‘final common pathway’ that links residual damage caused by the hydrocephalic condition to a nonverbal learning disability (Rourke & Del Dotto 1994, p. 37). The paper seeks to assist teachers, teacher aides, psychologists, guidance officers, support workers, parents and disability service providers whose role is to understand and advocate for individuals with shunted hydrocephalus and spina bifida.