What is the relationship between Klinefelter syndrome (KS) and learning difficulties?

From the Research

Relationship Between Klinefelter Syndrome and Learning Difficulties

The relationship between Klinefelter syndrome (KS) and learning difficulties is complex and multifaceted. Key findings from various studies include:

• Boys with KS often demonstrate a verbal cognitive deficit and significant underachievement in reading, spelling, and arithmetic, with problems increasing with age 1.
• KS is a common cause of mental retardation of unknown etiology among prepubertal males, with language deficits and academic difficulties being prevalent 2.
• Individuals with KS typically have an increased risk of language disorders and reading disabilities, with a small but significant downward shift in mean overall IQ 3.
• Executive function deficits have been identified in children and adults with KS, although further research is needed to fully understand the neuropsychological profile 3.
• High-level language competencies and Theory of Mind are affected in individuals with KS, with weaknesses observed in executive function, language, and academic performance 4.

Cognitive and Language Deficits

Cognitive and language deficits associated with KS include:

• Verbal cognitive deficits and underachievement in reading, spelling, and arithmetic 1.
• Language disorders and reading disabilities 3.
• Executive function deficits 3.
• High-level language competencies and Theory of Mind deficits 4.
• Speech and language deficits, including oromotor, speech, language, literacy, and pragmatic abilities 5.

Prevalence and Severity

The prevalence and severity of learning difficulties in KS vary, with:

• 92% of males with KS exhibiting communication impairment 5.
• 70% of males with KS having mild to severe receptive and expressive language deficits 5.
• 76% of males with KS having literacy deficits 5.
• 83% of males with KS having impairments in social-pragmatic language 5.