Which category describes a disorder in one or more basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, that may manifest in difficulties with listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, spelling, or math calculations?

• A. Speech Impaired
• B. Cognitive Delay
• C. Specific Learning Disability
• D. Developmental Delay

Answer: (C)

This item focuses on recognizing what a Specific Learning Disability is. A Specific Learning Disability describes a disorder in one or more basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, which shows up as persistent difficulties in academic areas such as listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, spelling, or math calculations. This means the challenge stems from processing weaknesses rather than from overall intelligence, sensory problems, or lacking instruction. Because the description points to processing difficulties that affect foundational language-based and math skills, the best label is Specific Learning Disability, which covers conditions like dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (math). The other options describe broader or different issues (speech production problems, general developmental or cognitive delays) that don’t pinpoint a processing disorder affecting specific academic skills.