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The relationship between ADHD and dyslexia is complex and multifaceted, with evidence for both overlap and distinctiveness in their cognitive and behavioral profiles. As Willcutt et al. (2018) note, "the relationship between ADHD and dyslexia is complex and multifaceted, with evidence for both overlap and distinctiveness in their cognitive and behavioral profiles." While the two conditions have different diagnostic criteria and symptoms, they can co-occur in individuals, and some research suggests that they may have shared underlying factors.

There is evidence to suggest that both ADHD and dyslexia have a genetic basis, and some of the genes that have been implicated in one disorder are also associated with the other. According to Semrud-Clikeman and Bledsoe (2011), "there is evidence to suggest that both ADHD and dyslexia have a genetic basis, and some of the genes that have been implicated in one disorder are also associated with the other." This suggests that there may be some shared genetic factors that contribute to the development of both conditions.

Individuals with dyslexia and ADHD share difficulties with attentional control, working memory, and processing speed, suggesting that the two disorders may have a common underlying neurobiological basis. As Peterson and Pennington (2015) note, "individuals with dyslexia and ADHD share difficulties with attentional control, working memory, and processing speed, suggesting that the two disorders may have a common underlying neurobiological basis." This overlap in cognitive and neural processes may help to explain why some individuals with ADHD also have dyslexia.

The presence of ADHD may further complicate the academic difficulties experienced by children with dyslexia, particularly with regard to reading and written expression. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2018), "the presence of ADHD may further complicate the academic difficulties experienced by children with dyslexia, particularly with regard to reading and written expression." This can lead to academic underachievement, low self-esteem, and behavioral problems, which may exacerbate the challenges already faced by individuals with dyslexia.

These quotes illustrate the complexity of the relationship between ADHD and dyslexia, and suggest that there may be some shared cognitive and genetic factors that contribute to the development of these conditions. They also highlight the potential impact of these conditions on academic performance and social-emotional well-being.