Laskuhäiriö

Laskuhäiriö, a Finnish term, translates to "calculation disorder" or "arithmetic disorder" in English. It refers to a learning disability that specifically affects a person's ability to understand and manipulate numbers. This can manifest in various ways, including difficulties with basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as problems with understanding mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages, and problem-solving.

Individuals with laskuhäiriö may struggle to grasp the meaning of numbers, count objects, recognize number patterns, or perform calculations quickly and accurately. They might find it challenging to estimate quantities, understand time, manage money, or follow sequential instructions involving numbers. These difficulties can extend beyond academic settings, impacting daily life activities such as cooking, shopping, and managing personal finances.

It is important to distinguish laskuhäiriö from general intellectual disability. People with laskuhäiriö typically have average or above-average intelligence in other areas. The disorder is believed to stem from differences in the brain's ability to process numerical information. Diagnosis usually involves a comprehensive assessment by educational psychologists or specialists who evaluate mathematical skills and cognitive abilities.

Interventions for laskuhäiriö often involve targeted educational strategies and specialized instruction. These may include using visual aids, manipulatives, and breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps. A patient and consistent approach, along with appropriate support and accommodations, can help individuals with laskuhäiriö develop compensatory strategies and improve their mathematical functioning.