Experts have slammed the recent claims that dyslexic ‘doesn’t exist’
The conversation around dyslexia and ADHD intensified last week when Daily Mail columnist Peter Hitchens stated that these conditions are not real. The 73-year-old quoted the Dyslexia Debate by Elena Grigorenko and Julian Elliott, which suggests that the diagnosis of dyslexia is missing crucial medical evidence.
Peter argued: “Dyslexia is one of those rare afflictions that people actually want to have. In this, it is like its equally fictional cousin ADHD. Both have no objective, testable, falsifiable diagnosis. Yet both bring certain privileges to those who think they have them.”
He further suggested that dyslexia could be attributed to poor teaching, criticising UK’s current educational curriculum and teaching methods. However, speech therapist Louise Lawrence, who has been diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, cautioned about the potential harm of such claims.
She warned: “(Peter) highlights a disturbing trend of blaming individuals rather than addressing the real challenges we face. For me, it isn’t about academic debate; it’s about the constant battle against misunderstanding and prejudice.
“As someone who has navigated school, university, and the workplace with these conditions, I feel deeply affected by these claims that dismiss our experiences as nothing more than myths or excuses- it feels like a personal attack.”
Louise confessed that she found it challenging to meet expectations at school, university and even in work due to “my natural style of thinking”. She expressed her disappointment over Peter’s comments invalidating this but highlighted the more severe consequences it could cause.
She explained: “If influential figures continue to dismiss or misrepresent the nature of dyslexia and ADHD, fewer people might be willing to seek the accommodations that can truly level the playing field. The consequences aren’t abstract, they affect educational opportunities, job prospects, and, ultimately, our mental well-being!”
Peter specifically targeted Jamie Oliver in his article, who has been candid about his own dyslexia diagnosis. Louise stated that singling out such high-profile individuals makes the comments “even more painful” as it “sends a stark message: even those who have risen to become community leaders are not immune to ridicule.”
He cited the Dyslexia Debate which argued that the condition lacks some crucial medical evidence such as an agreed upon definition, objective diagnosis and falsifiable test. Clinical Psychologist Dr Rebecca Varrall clarified what this implies.
She explained: “The criteria and methods used are based on decades of real research and clinical experience, and they continue to be refined, not discarded as our understanding improves. In medicine, having a clear, agreed-upon definition is essential because it helps everyone speak the same language.
“These criteria are developed through extensive research and expert consensus and they make sure that diagnoses are consistent. It also means that treatment is standardized too, so clear definitions help in designing and applying effective treatment plans.”
Rebecca, who co-founded Neurodiversity Unravelled with Louise to support neurodiverse individuals and their families, acknowledged Peter’s perspective and the studies he cited but described them as a “narrow view that ignores decades of neuroscience and psychology research”. She reassured that the criteria for ADHD and dyslexia are outlined in the DSM-5, while acknowledging the absence of a single, repeatable test for these conditions.
She pointed out that this is not uncommon in various areas of medicine: “Currently, there aren’t ‘lab tests’ that can definitively prove the presence of these conditions. Instead, diagnoses are based on a combination of clinical observations; behavioural assessments and standardized questionnaires and tests.
“Research using brain imaging and other methods has shown consistent differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD or dyslexia.” Rebecca outlined grave concerns: “Misinformation can lead to reduced funding or interest in studying these conditions if they are portrayed as ‘not real’.
“If influential voices spread doubts about the legitimacy of ADHD or dyslexia, it may discourage people from seeking help or lead professionals to question established diagnostic criteria.” In her closing thoughts, Louise emphasised: “In the end, we need leaders and public figures who stand up for neurodivergence, not tear it down.
“Until then, every dismissive comment feels like a reminder of the long road ahead in achieving true understanding and acceptance.”