Lived experiences of everyday memory in adults with dyslexia: A thematic analysis

Journal article

Smith-Spark, J. H. and Lewis, E. G. (2023). Lived experiences of everyday memory in adults with dyslexia: A thematic analysis. Behavioral Sciences. 13 (10), p. 840. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100840
AuthorsSmith-Spark, J. H. and Lewis, E. G.
Abstract

Dyslexia-related difficulties with memory are well documented under laboratory conditions and via self-report questionnaires. However, the voice of the individual with dyslexia regarding the lived experience of memory across different memory systems and different daily settings is currently lacking. To address this gap in the literature, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 adult female university students with dyslexia. Questions probed different memory systems and experiences across different settings, with interviewees also being asked about their use of technology to support their memory. Two overarching themes were identified in the subsequent thematic analysis. The theme of fallibility of memory had two sub-themes of i) a lack of trust and confidence in memory and ii) factors contributing to memory failure. The second theme, facilitators of memory, also consisted of two sub-themes, relating to i) a preference for traditional tools to support memory and ii) the use of digital tools to support memory: benefits and limitations. The current study gives insights into the rich and complex extended and distributed cognitive systems of adults with dyslexia. The implications of the findings for dyslexia theory, support in educational and work settings, and assistive technology development are considered.

Keywordsdevelopmental dyslexia; adult cognition; memory; short-term memory; working memory; long-term memory; prospective memory; assistive technology; lived experience
Year2023
JournalBehavioral Sciences
Journal citation13 (10), p. 840
PublisherMDPI
ISSN2076-328X
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100840
Web address (URL)https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/13/10/840
Publication dates
Print14 Oct 2023
Publication process dates
Accepted12 Oct 2023
Deposited16 Oct 2023
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