Research and Publications
Peer-reviewed research and publications contributing to the fields of Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia), education, and advocacy.
Research
Parents’ stress and satisfaction with dyslexia assessment and diagnosis in Australia
​​Authors: Hayley Anthony, Andrea Reupert, Louise McLean, Aspasia Stacey Rabba, & Heidi Gregory
Journal: Educational and Developmental Psychologist (2025)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/20590776.2025.2545250
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This study explored the experiences of 80 Australian parents during their child’s dyslexia diagnosis. Parents valued the professionalism of practitioners and the clarity of reports, but identified major gaps in affordability, timeliness, post-diagnosis support, and school response.
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Key findings:
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Assessments are seen as professional and useful, but costly.
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Timely diagnosis is often hard to access.
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Parents feel unsupported once the diagnosis is given.
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Schools do not consistently act on assessment recommendations.
What needs to change:
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Make assessments affordable and accessible.
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Speed up the diagnostic process.
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Provide clear, parent-friendly information at diagnosis.
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Ensure structured follow-up support for families.
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Improve school responses to reports and recommendations.