Mållæsion

Mållæsion is a term used in some Scandinavian languages, particularly Swedish and Norwegian, to describe a specific type of reading difficulty. It is not a recognized clinical diagnosis in the same way as dyslexia, but rather a broader descriptor for challenges in acquiring reading skills. These difficulties can manifest in various ways, including problems with decoding words, understanding the meaning of text, or reading fluency.

The origins of the term suggest a connection to "mål" which can mean target or goal, and "läsning" or "lesning" meaning reading. Thus, it implies a struggle to reach the goal of proficient reading. Factors contributing to mållæsion can be diverse and may include a lack of adequate early literacy instruction, insufficient exposure to reading materials, or underlying cognitive or developmental factors that affect language processing.

While not a formal diagnosis, identifying mållæsion can be a useful step in recognizing a child's or individual's reading struggles. It prompts further assessment to pinpoint the specific nature of the difficulties and to implement targeted support strategies. These strategies might involve remedial reading programs, phonics instruction, or interventions aimed at improving comprehension and fluency. The goal is to help the individual overcome their reading obstacles and achieve greater literacy.