Practical solutions to identifying dyslexia in juvenile offenders

The aim of this project was to evaluate the use of computer-based screening as a practical solution to identifying dyslexia in juvenile offenders. Funding was provided by Connexions, West Yorkshire. The relationship between dyslexia and offending is complex and contentious. A variety of studies have reported higher rates of dyslexia among offenders than in the general population, leading to the argument that undiagnosed and/or untreated dyslexia, resulting in poor educational achievement and lowered self-esteem, makes young people more vulnerable to delinquent behaviour and to the subsequent development of an antisocial , criminal lifestyle. However, these findings are not without controversy and further research is needed. Results depend on how dyslexia is defined and assessed, and the issue is complicated not only by social and educational background factors but also by the generally poor levels of literacy and below average verbal intelligence in offender samples. Nevertheless, the latest studies using psychometric testing suggest that the incidence of dyslexia amongst offenders is three to four times that found in the general population. The lack of a full understanding of the intricate relationship between dyslexia and offending does not discharge society's responsibility to identify dyslexia amongst offenders and to address the educational needs of those who show indications of dyslexia. To neglect dyslexia as a possible causal factor in offending or to ignore the educational needs of dyslexic offenders would be to squander potential opportunities for reducing reoffending. Consequently, the British Dyslexia Association believes that, regardless of the actual incidence of dyslexia in this population, it is imperative that vigorous efforts are made to identify dyslexia amongst young offenders, prisoners and those on probation, so that appropriate and effective educational support can be provided to improve their occupational opportunities and reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Computer-based tests have significant advantages for screening for dyslexia in the offending population. They are speedier and easier to use than conventional tests and staff need less training. There is evidence that offenders, who often have poor levels of literacy, are less intimidated by computer-based assessment than conventional assessment and more likely to cooperate in the screening process. However, it is recognised that in this study we are dealing with a special population and screening methods which work well in other settings may not be as accurate or effective in this setting, thus alternative or modified methods may be required. The project was carried out in three phases. …