An evaluation of the irlen lenses as a treatment for specific reading disorders

Tinted lenses have been prescribed in recent years to ameliorate the “scotopic sensitivity” syndrome thought to underlie some reading disabilities (Irlen, 1983a). The present investigation revealed personality differences between scotopic sensitive (n = 38) and non-scotopic sensitive children (n = 22). The study also examined performance in reading, depth perception, and simple eye-hand coordination tasks for 22 children who were prescribed specific tinted lenses. There were no significant differences in performance between pre- and post-lens prescription on any measure of the Neale Analysis of Reading Ability (rate, accuracy, or comprehension). Performance with tinted lenses was also compared with that for random colour, plain lenses, and a no lens control condition. There were no significant differences in reading performance or performance on a simple eye-hand coordination task or on depth perception tasks with prescribed coloured lenses compared with any other lens condition. The study did not provide any quantitative evidence to support the use of Irlen lenses in the treatment of children with reading difficulties.