THE PSYCHOSOCIAL OUTCOMES OF LEARNING DISABILITIES: IMPLICATIONS ON STUDENTS’ MENTAL HEALTH AND NATIONAL SECURITY

Abstract

Learning disabilities (LD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that impair one or more specific learning skills in an individual such as skills of information acquisition, storage, processing, and execution and these manifest as significant difficulties in the affected learner’s academic performance, social interactions, and behavioural adjustment. The presence of these disorders in learners often results in some negative psychosocial outcomes such as poor academic achievement, isolation, low self-esteem or self-worth, poor self-concept, depression, anxiety, behavioural maladjustment, and the manifestation of deviant behaviours which if not properly managed can put the learners at risk of more complicated mental health issues which might ultimately exacerbate the challenge of national security. This position paper explores relevant literature on the concept of learning disabilities, the psycho-social challenges faced by students with learning disabilities, and the implications of learning disabilities on the mental health of individuals with learning disabilities and ultimately its implications on national security. This study also highlights relevant recommendations for educational experts and national stakeholders such as policy formulation and implementation, early identification and assessment, provision of interventions, support, and adequate resources for learners with LD to mitigate the negative outcomes of the disorder and promote positive outcomes.