In a Hollywood Reporter article, Chris Rock mentioned a diagnosis of Nonverbal Learning Disorder or NVLD. A friend suggested Rock had Asperger’s, so he decided to look into it. Sure enough, after cognitive testing, at 55 years old, he got an answer. NVLD is hard to catch and is often missed until late adulthood.
So, what is Nonverbal Learning Disorder, and why aren’t we talking about it? Let’s go over some of the basics and get an idea of what it is, and how you can get involved with spreading awareness. It’s important to note that despite similarities, Nonverbal Learning Disorder is not the same as Autism and Asperger’s.
What is Nonverbal Learning Disorder?
Nonverbal Learning Disorders is similar to Autism and Asperger’s. People with NVLD struggle with spatial learning and social cues. People with NVLD have strengths in vocabulary and verbal skills. According to the NVLD Project, these are some things people with NVLD can have trouble with:
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- Motor skills such as using scissors or tying shoelaces
- Social awareness
- Being able to stay focused
- Reading social cues
- Reading comprehension and word problems for math
- Handwriting
- Lack of common sense
This list is a small portion of the many troubles a person with NVLD can face. People with NVLD can read and write at a very high level usually, but may not be able to communicate the main idea of the story to you. They will also have trouble understanding sarcasm or nonverbal cues from another person. Most of the time when these traits are noticed, a person is considered to be ‘quirky’ and that’s just the way they are.
How is it Diagnosed?
Non-Verbal Learning Disorder can be tricky to diagnose because it isn’t recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5,) which is a guide used by doctors to make a diagnosis. However, you can still be tested. It is unknown how common NVLD is because so many people can go their whole lives without being diagnosed.
Cognitive testing that evaluates speech, visual-spatial organization, and motor skills are used for diagnosis. Unfortunately, once a diagnosis is made, NVLD is not covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA.) This means that if a child is diagnosed, they may not be able to receive special education services. Many schools are working to get students the help they need regardless.
Organizations and adults sharing their stories online in blogs like this one to help people understand what it’s like will help spread awareness of NVLD. Websites such as the NVLD Project contain resources for those with NVLD and ways to get involved. Chris Rock speaking openly about his diagnosis is important in the aid of spreading awareness.
If you’re wondering if your child or yourself could have NVLD, an online screener can be a good place to start. Of course, always consult with your doctor or therapist for further screening and testing for an accurate diagnosis.
