Health Encyclopedia

Mathematics disorder

Definition

Mathematics disorder is a condition characterized by mathematical ability substantially below expectation for a child's age, general intelligence, and education.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Children who have mathematics disorder may have trouble performing simple mathematical equations, such as counting and adding.

Mathematical disorder may appear in combination with reading disorder, developmental coordination disorder, and mixed receptive-expressive language disorder.

Symptoms

Early difficulties with arithmetic
Trouble with counting and adding
Low scores in mathematics

Signs and tests

Standardized tests are of greatest value in assessing mathematical ability, as is corroborating history from grades and class performance.

Treatment

The best treatment is remedial education. Other programs that have been successful include "Project Math" and teaching computer skills.

Expectations (prognosis)

Early intervention improves the chances of a better outcome.

Complications

The child may have problems in school, including behavior problems and loss of self-esteem.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any concerns about your child's development.

Prevention

Affected families should make every effort to recognize existing problems early. Intervention may begin as early as kindergarten or elementary school.

Review Date:11/15/2006
Reviewed By:Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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