Smith-Spark, J. , Ziecik, A. & Sterling, C.
London South Bank University, UK
Problems with working memory are well documented in dyslexia, but the impact of dyslexia on other memory systems has been investigated less extensively. Retrospective memory (RM) is memory for personally experienced past events. Prospective memory (PM) is memory for delayed intentions. There is limited evidence to suggest that both RM and PM are impaired in dyslexia and this is focused on children. To expand upon this research, two self-report studies were administered to adults with dyslexia and IQ-matched adults without dyslexia. In Study 1, a questionnaire tapping both RM and PM was completed by respondents and their close associates. More frequent problems with both types of memory were reported by the adults with dyslexia and supported by proxy-ratings. In Study 2, a different sample of participants recorded the errors that they made in their ongoing, naturalistic cognition over a two-week period. More frequent errors relating to both RM and PM were reported by the adults with dyslexia. Responses to the questionnaire and the diary study thus suggest that problems with memory occur more frequently in dyslexia. These findings need to be explained by dyslexia theory and to be fed into the provision of support for people with dyslexia.