Base rates of low achievement scores in young adults: implications for specific learning disability assessment

Key Points

• To explore the prevalence of low achievement scores and establish criteria for specific learning disability diagnosis in young adults.
• Analyzed normative and relative low achievement subtest scores in young adults.
• Evaluated criteria such as early academic skill acquisition and current functional impairment.
• Considered rule-outs of alternative causes for low achievement scores.
• Low achievement scores are prevalent among young adults in the general population.
• SLD diagnosis should include evidence of early academic difficulties and current challenges.
• Objective assessment criteria enhance the diagnostic process for specific learning disabilities.