Fragile X Syndrome Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Fragile X Syndrome, including details on symptoms, treatment, heritability, diagnosis.

Memory Profiles of Down, Williams, and Fragile X Syndromes: Implications for Reading Development.

Conners FA, Moore MS, Loveall SJ, Merrill EC

From the Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL.

The purpose of this review was to understand the types of memory impairments that are associated with intellectual disability (ID, formerly called mental retardation) and the implications of these impairments for reading development. Specifically, studies on working memory, delayed memory and learning, and semantic/conceptual memory in Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, and fragile X syndrome were examined. A distinct memory profile emerged for each of the 3 etiologies of ID. Memory profiles are discussed in relation to strengths and weaknesses in reading skills in these three etiologies. We suggest that reading instruction be designed to capitalize on relatively stronger memory skills while providing extra support for especially challenging aspects of reading.

Published 27 April 2011 in J Dev Behav Pediatr.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2005-2012 Fragile X Syndrome Research Today. All Rights Reserved.