When Kids Can’t Read, They Act Out — The Hidden Link Between Literacy & Behavior | SOR BLOG POST 12

Struggling with reading isn’t just an academic problem — it can deeply affect a child’s emotions and behavior.

The Emotional Toll of Illiteracy

Imagine sitting in a classroom where everyone around you is reading and writing with ease, while you’re lost and confused. It’s isolating, frustrating, and can make a child feel powerless.

For many kids, this frustration doesn’t stay inside — it shows up as:

• Defiance or oppositional behavior

• Acting out or aggression

• Shutting down or withdrawal

• Masking their struggles by pretending to understand

Why Does This Happen?

When kids can’t read well, they often feel embarrassed or ashamed. They may fear being “found out” and judged. This emotional stress can trigger oppositional defiant behaviors (ODD) or other forms of acting out as a way to regain some control.

Others may shut down completely — withdrawing to protect themselves from failure or criticism. Some even mask their difficulties by guessing or bluffing, which can look like inattentiveness or defiance.

What Educators and Parents Need to Know

Behavior problems may be symptoms of reading struggles, not intentional misbehavior. Punishing or labeling these children without addressing the root cause only worsens the problem.

Instead, recognizing the link between literacy and behavior can lead to better support:

• Early screening for reading difficulties

• Explicit, structured literacy instruction

• Emotional support and patience

• Positive behavior strategies tied to literacy growth

The Bigger Picture

By addressing literacy challenges head-on, we not only improve academic outcomes but also reduce behavioral issues and help kids build confidence and resilience.

Because when a child can read, they can thrive — in school, in social settings, and in life.

📚 Want to dive deeper?

Visit www.mindchild.net for ready-to-use Science of Reading lessons with guided videos, insights on the 16 personality types in child development, and in-depth resources on the literacy and education crises. Empower your teaching. Empower every child.