Theoretical Issues Surrounding Severe Discrepancy

Abstract

This paper reviews the theoretical issues surrounding a severe discrepancy in the diagnosis of learning disabilities. The theoretical status of discrepancy is first discussed. It is concluded that the discrepancy concept is difficult to validate theoretically and has become too reified and deified. Components of discrepancy, including ability measures, achievement measures, and the notion of expected achievement, are next discussed. Discrepancy, as an ability-achievement difference, is next discussed with respect to uniqueness, experience, reliability, severity, and measurement models. Finally, the relationship between discrepancy and learning disabilities is discussed. It is argued that discrepancy is best linked to underachievement and that a learning disability should be something more than simply underachievement. It is concluded that discrepancy is a necessary but not sufficient criterion in the identification of a learning disability.

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