Dyslexia – the new superpower
Why is dyslexia a gift, you may ask. Research by scientists raises the possibility that dyslexia, which affects an estimated one in five people worldwide, could have an evolutionary upside, giving some individuals strengths at seeking out new information about the world, instead of reinterpreting information that has already been mapped out.
These scientists say the benefits of dyslexia outweigh the negative aspects. Their wish is that society would view the cognitive parameters of the condition differently because the mental function that causes dyslexia grants special powers that enhance the individual.
The advantages of dyslexia – the new superpower – include;
- creativity – the majority of people with dyslexia are very artistic,
- spatial awareness – they have the ability to manipulate 3D shapes in their minds –
- and excellent thinking skills in the areas of conceptualisation, reason, imagination, and abstraction,
- those with dyslexia can utilise the brain’s ability to alter and create perceptions,
- they are problem solvers,
- they are highly aware of the environment,
- they are more curious than the average person,
- they think mainly in pictures instead of words,
- they are intuitive and insightful,
- they think and perceive multi-dimensionally (using all the senses),
- they can experience thought as reality.
If not suppressed, invalidated or destroyed by parents or the educational process, these characteristics will result in higher-than-normal intelligence and extraordinary, creative abilities.
The power to think ‘outside the box’ and come up with unorthodox, fresh, logical reasoning makes dyslexics good at jobs that involve using spatial techniques and problem-solving skills. These include mechanical engineering, fashion styling, creative design, performing arts – the list is endless.
Too often dyslexia is associated with reading, writing, spelling, and maths problems, or with ‘slow learners’. A guest on a TV show was asked about the ‘positive’ side of dyslexia. As part of the answer, the guest listed a dozen or so famous dyslexics. The show host then commented, “Isn’t it amazing that all those people could be geniuses in spite of having dyslexia.” The guest pointed out that their genius didn’t occur in spite of their dyslexia, but because of it…
Having dyslexia won’t make every dyslexic a genius, but all dyslexics should know their minds work in the same way as the minds of great geniuses. It is also important to know that having a problem with reading, writing, spelling, or math doesn’t mean the dyslexic person is stupid.
We at Capulum College have nurtured – extensively and successfully – children who have dyslexia. Let us help you help your superhero…
