Another type of Information Processing Disorder is the Visual Processing
Disorder. Visual Processing Disorder is an informational processing disorder or Learning Disability (LD). This does not pertain to how well a person sees; it is how the information that is seen is interpreted by the brain.

Examples of Visual Processing Disorder:

  • Difficulty distinguishing the difference between similar objects, shapes or letters
  • Problems noticing similarities and differences when comparing colors, shapes and patterns
  • Trouble differentiating shapes or letters from the background they are printed on
  • Difficulty with math problems (dyscalculia)
  • Poor school performance
  • Exhibit behavior problems
  • Reversing or misreading words, numbers or letters (dyslexia)
  • Difficulty reading consecutively line after line; often skips lines or rereads the same line of printed text
  • Difficulty writing within the lines and margins on a piece of paper (dysgraphia)
  • Difficulty taking notes from the blackboard, overhead or a book
  • Problems with physical activities that require timed execution
  • Difficulty with spelling
  • Difficulty with reading comprehension
  • Problems remembering sequential numbers such as locker combinations or telephone numbers
  • Trouble with judging time
  • Difficulty recognizing a picture if something is missing
  • Problems with spacing – understanding distance
  • Problems reading maps
  • Trouble getting from one place to another

 

Helpful strategies for someone with Visual Processing Disorder:

  • Practicing with word search games or other games where you search for pictures within pictures
  • Using a computer to write
  • Using a tape recorder in class for lectures
  • Allow exams to be administered orally
  • Have a Note taker in class
  • Using verbal direction as well as written instructions
  • Practicing social skills that focus on judging how far you should stand or sit next to another person

 

Auditory Processing Disorder cannot be cured. It is a lifetime disorder. It is important to get help for your teenager. The educational system can help and you are a vital member of the team that creates an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that will put in place aids for your teen to be successful academically.

It is not unusual for a teenager to have behavior problems because of the frustrations they have due to a Learning Disability. Triumph Youth Services has an accredited academic program that can help your teen. Call them.

Reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_processing
http://www.ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/adhd-related-issues/visual-processing-disorders/visual-processing-disorders