Definitional problems surrounding the terms "hyperactivity" and "learning disabilities" cannot be fully resolved unless dimensions of behavior (intercorrelated core characteristics) can be independently identified that correspond in some way with these terms. This research utilizes a broad item pool supposedly related to learning disabilities and…

The article examines the background and current status of attempts to define the term "learning disabilities" (LDs), and concludes that resolution of the problem by continued search for a consummate definition of LD is unrealistic. (Author)

In response to a previous article, the paper stresses that, in addition to theory development, the field of learning disabilities needs to resolve definitional issues involving disability specificity, intelligence, measurement concepts, and the continua of abilities. Suggestions for developing operational definitions of both learning disabilities…

Arguments supporting the conceptual validity of learning disabilities are presented against the background of current definitional problems. The need to differentiate between classification and identification and the importance of a shared attribute definition are stressed. It is argued that a taxonomy of learning disabilities and related…

The article reviews the history of public policy, legislation, and services affecting learning disabled children in the context of professional differences concerning definitional issues and anxieties about current initiatives to serve learning disabled students in the regular classroom. The need for solid research on effective instruction with…

The author examines current issues in the field of learning disabilities and notes the absence of national leadership, difficulties with the definition issue, ineffective and inconsequential research, thoughtless approaches to mainstreaming, and ill-advised noncategorical teacher education. (CL)

The activities of the Specific Learning Disabilities Program and its model demonstration centers are reviewed, the term "specific learning disabilities" is operationally defined, and special education issues (such as the need for research on methodologies and curricula) are listed. (SBH)

Drawing on data from a large epidemiological study concerning the definition and identification of learning disabled (LD) adolescents, the article discusses whether LD adolescents, as they are being identified in the public schools, are different from other low achieving (LA) peers, and, if so, how they are different. (DLS)

While the term "learning disability" awaits clarification, the authors have mounted an interdisciplinary effort to identify and treat children who suffer the immature development syndromes that trigger underachievement in educational tasks. Describes "vulnerable" children, who were studied by the Learning Disorders Unit of New York University…

This article addresses gifted students who are at risk or have learning disabilities and thus may not be identified as gifted. The definition of giftedness is discussed, and profiles of students who are gifted/at risk and gifted with learning disabilities are provided to better identify these students. (CR)

This article discusses definitional differences, survey data, and studies relevant to the question of a discernible hearing-impaired, learning-disabled subgroup. The existence of such a group is a subject of speculation, and diagnostic difficulties and the inadequacies of current standardized testing procedures have prevented the formation and…

The study with over 2,500 children (ages 9-14) found the two approaches identified somewhat different groups of children as reading disabled despite little difference in performance on the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery for Children. (Author/DB)

The proposed modified definition of learning disability by the Interagency Committee on Learning Disabilities, which includes social skills deficits as a specific learning disability, is presented and analyzed from primary, secondary, and social learning theory causative hypotheses. Development of an adequate assessment technology is urged.…