Despite a lot of hard work and above average IQ, Joy is not able to perform even at average level in school. He is facing problems in basic reading and writing. He still is very popular with his friends and is an extravert. Identify the disorder that Joy is suffering from.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Specific Learning Disorder
Option (1) Attention - Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder — Incorrect. The two main features of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity: the child cannot sustain mental effort, is easily distracted and cannot sit still. Joy works hard, and nothing is said about distraction or restlessness.
Option (2) Autism Spectrum Disorder — Incorrect. It is marked by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication; such children find it very hard to relate to other people. Joy is popular with his friends and an extravert, which rules this out.
Option (3) Intellectual Deficiency — Incorrect. Intellectual disability means significantly below-average intellectual functioning (an IQ below about 70) together with deficits in adaptive behaviour. Joy has an above-average IQ.
Option (4) Specific Learning Disorder — Correct. Here the individual has difficulty in perceiving or processing information efficiently and accurately. It shows in the early school years as problems in basic skills in reading, writing and/or mathematics, and the child performs below average for her/his age, as Joy does in spite of hard work and good intelligence.
NCERT (2025-26): “Neurodevelopmental Disorders … The two main features of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.…” “…Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterised by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication skills, and stereotyped patterns of behaviours, interests and activities. Children with autism spectrum disorder have marked difficulties in social interaction and communication across different contexts, a restricted range of interests, and strong desire for routine.…” “In case of specific learning disorder, the individual experiences difficulty in perceiving or processing information efficiently and accurately. These get manifested during early school years and the individual encounters problems in basic skills in reading, writing and/or mathematics. The affected child tends to perform below average for her/his age. However, individuals may be able to reach acceptable performance levels with additional inputs and efforts. Specific learning disorder is likely to impair functioning and performance in activities/ occupations dependent on the related skills.…” |