It is argued that Christensen and others fail in their claim that learning disabilities are merely an excuse invented by schools to explain their instructional failures. Specific instances of error are discussed. A reply by Gerber and Christensen follows this article. (MT)

This paper explores potential avenues of analysis and research useful for reconciling the concept of "learning disabilities" both as a medical and a psychological concept. Traditional perspectives are analyzed. Issues regarding the legitimacy of labeling children as learning disabled are discussed. (MT)