Manifestations of resilience: an autobiographical analysis of a ‘dyslexic’

Abstract

This thesis is an autobiographical study that relates my experiences, particularly my educational experiences, of living with dyslexia with the aim of elucidating its impact on the development of my selfhood. I examine the problems associated with dyslexia and evaluate how my own experiences correlate to, or are disparate from, current knowledge about this specific learning difficulty (SpLD). I explore the notion of epiphanies as a way of highlighting the impact of specific occurrences - the battles and the triumphs - within my life that have shaped my outlook and impacted on my self-development. These experiences are analysed through the lens of the theoretical constructs of resilience, stigma, significant others and the Germanic philosophical principle of Bildung as a way of understanding the development of my selfhood. This work makes an original contribution to knowledge as it is the study of the unique experiences of an individual and how dyslexia impacts upon his life. A single case can have considerable general illuminative utility. As such, the thesis is a link with others experiencing dyslexia, and therefore may help to inform them about ways to manage and cope with their SpLD in order to succeed in life. This autobiography may also be useful for those dealing with dyslexic individuals, such as parents and teachers, as they reflect on how they can support those in their care.

More information

Identifiers

Catalogue record

Export record