My thoughts on the dyslexia debate

I respond to a forthcoming book by Julian Elliott and Elena Grigorenko called The Dyslexia Debate. They argue that dyslexia does not constitute a natural category, in terms of cognitive profile, neurobiology or genetics. They make a convincing case on the basis of available evidence. However,  I suggest the dyslexia label will survive because it provides many people with a positive view of their difficulties which also helps them get taken seriously. For that reason, I think we may find it easier to work with the label and try to ensure it is used in a consistent and meaningful way, rather than to argue for its abolition.