Dyslexia in Bilinguals: a PRISMA Systematic Review

This systematic review examines the intersection of bilingualism and dyslexia by analysing 40 studies involving bilingual dyslexic readers (DRs). The goal is to identify dyslexia characteristics that are independent of bilingual experience and determine the appropriate tests for in bilinguals. Findings indicate that rapid naming and reading impairments remain prevalent in bilingual DRs while phonological awareness appears to be more variably impaired in bilinguals. Differences between monolinguals and bilinguals are more present in DRs than typical readers (TRs), suggesting that bilingual experience might play a more substantial role in populations with deficits. Results from predictive studies do not allow for evidence-based recommendations due to their variability. Overall, fndings suggest that some diagnostic tools retain cross-linguistic validity, while others’ prognostic potential may be modulated by bilingual experience. The results highlight the need for comprehensive assessments, considering linguistic profiles. Future research should adopt standardised definitions and tests, larger samples, and collaborative methods to improve diagnostic accuracy.