The Science of Dyslexia and Emotion


 One of the first studies I came across after my first diagnosis was by Virginia Sturm and her colleagues, titled "Enhanced Visceral Motor Emotional Reactivity in Dyslexia and its Relation to the Salient Network." In this study, the researchers examined how phonetic dyslexics responded to visual images that evoked emotional responses. 

In this study, they monitored participants' skin temperature, facial expressions, and brain activity, and found that phonetic dyslexics showed increased emotional behaviour. To further this, they shared that those who had increased emotional behaviour also showed higher social skills and symptoms, along with symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

Emotional behaviour is how our faces express what we are thinking – it is our facial expressions. Phonetic dyslexics showed increased facial expression when exposed to or expressing emotional experiences, compared to the other participants. These results further the belief that dyslexics are hypersensitive and hyperactive to nonverbal cues; in addition, they can convey affect or emotional communication at a higher rate than non-dyslexics.

The phonetic dyslexics were able to pick up on the subtle cues of the emotional visuals, allowing them to see what is happening beyond the verbal and obvious. Understanding this, we might then be able to infer why emotional regulation could be more complex for those who are dyslexic, as they are taking in more than those around them. 

However, to achieve a higher level of well-being amid overwhelm, one needs to practice understanding and naming their emotions. Breath is one of the most excellent tools to use to reduce overwhelm and increase centring. First off, we all must breathe. Secondly, it is a tool that always comes with you. Thirdly people do not know what you are doing when you are using your breath with purpose. Emotional regulation is important for dyslexics, as they are designed to process more information than the typical person.

More research is needed on what it means to be dyslexic. Until then, we dyslexics need to begin rewriting our story, because meaning and mattering are essential to us. 


Location: Sherwood Park, AB, Canada

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