Developmental dysgraphia: An overview and framework for research. Issue 3 (19th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McCloskey, Michael; Rapp, Brenda
• Is Part Of: Cognitive neuropsychology. Volume 34:Issue 3/4(2017)
• Page Start: 65
• Page End: 82
• Publication Date: 2017-05-19
• Subjects: Developmental dysgraphia -- developmental dyslexia -- handwriting -- reading -- spelling; Neuropsychology -- Periodicals; 152
• DOI: 10.1080/02643294.2017.1369016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-3294

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Developmental deficits in the acquisition of writing skills (developmental dysgraphias) are common and have significant consequences, yet these deficits have received relatively little attention from researchers. We offer a framework for studying developmental dysgraphias (including both spelling and handwriting deficits), arguing that research should be grounded in theories describing normal cognitive writing mechanisms and the acquisition of these mechanisms. We survey the current state of knowledge concerning developmental dysgraphia, discussing potential proximal and distal causes. One conclusion emerging from this discussion is that developmental writing deficits are diverse in their manifestations and causes. We suggest an agenda for research on developmental dysgraphia, and suggest that pursuing this agenda may contribute not only to a better understanding of developmental writing impairment, but also to a better understanding of normal writing mechanisms and their acquisition. Finally, we provide a brief introduction to the subsequent articles in this special issue on developmental dysgraphia.