Processing Speed 

Downloadable PDF - What is slow processing speed?

Information adapted from Understood.org and Psych4Schools

Slow Processing Speed

Processing speed is the speed at which the brain can receive, understand, then respond to information. Processing speed varies from person to person. 

Slow processing speed is when people need a lot of time to:

• take in, make sense of, and respond to information. 

The information can be visual, like letters or numbers. It can also be auditory, like spoken language. Having slow processing speed can create frequent challenges at school, on the job, and in social situations. Some struggle with motor speed. So they have trouble reacting quickly to physical tasks, like filling out a form.

Students with poor processing speed have a slow work pace not because they are unable to understand the concept or lack the necessary skills, but because specific aspects that underpin their information processing, used for recalling and formulating thoughts and actions, are not automatic.

Signs of Slow Processing Speed:

• Young students may struggle to master the basics of reading, writing, and counting. 

• People of all ages may have trouble doing tasks quickly and accurately. T

• They often have a hard time remembering new information.

• Interacting with others can also be tricky. 

• People with slow processing speed may stand silently for a few seconds before responding to someone. 

• They might take a long time to explain something. 

• Need more time to make decisions or give answers

• Often miss social cues

• Need to read information more than once to understand it

• Have trouble following directions and routines

• Have trouble finishing tasks on time or in a reasonable amount of time

• Performing basic arithmetic.

• Reading and comprehending words and text.

• Copying from the board or from a text.

Processing speed isn’t an executive skill, but it can affect executive function. This means that it can impact working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control (ability to control thoughts and impulses). 

Slow processing speed is not related to ability or intelligence,— just how quickly they take in and use information.  A slower processing speed can often result in difficulties at school and elsewhere, particularly if it is not identified and understood. Having this challenge can create a lot of anxiety and take a toll on self-esteem. Slow processing speed can also impact social interactions.

Slow processing speed is sometimes also known as a processing speed deficit, or as a processing delay. 

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