University Trajectories and Psychological Well-Being of Students With Specific Learning Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review
University students with specific learning disorders (SLDs) continue to encounter substantial challenges despite increased access to higher education (HE). This systematic review synthesized evidence on (a) strategies and accommodations students with SLD use to achieve academically, (b) psychological consequences of their learning experiences, and (c) the role of institutional policies and practices in fostering inclusion. Following PRISMA guidelines, 34 studies published between 1994 and 2024 were identified through Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, PsycINFO, and PubMed. Eligible studies examined formally diagnosed SLDs (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dysorthographia) in HE. Students with SLDs rely on compensatory strategies-metacognitive regulation, time management, and assistive technologies-that support participation but demand disproportionate effort. Psychological evidence highlights elevated anxiety, stigma, and reduced confidence, although self-efficacy and resilience often act as protective factors. Institutional frameworks provide formal rights, but implementation is inconsistent, with faculty awareness emerging as a decisive factor. Accommodations are indispensable yet insufficient when poorly delivered. Findings underscore both the resilience of students with SLDs and the fragility of institutional support, reinforcing the need for a universal design and greater faculty engagement.
Authors
- Patrizia Oliva (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3907-0001)
- Milena Álvarez Andrade (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8882-3655)
- Llorenç Andreu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8568-2511)
- Angela Lombardo Pontillo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9811-6961)
Institutions
- Universidad de Antofagasta (CL)
- Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (ES)
- Magna Graecia University (IT)
- University of Macerata (IT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of Learning Disabilities
- Published
- 2026-04-06
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1177/00222194261433016
- Primary Topic
- Disability Education and Employment
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00