Emotional Disorders and Learning Disabilities in the Elementary

In this review of Emotional Disorders and Learning Disabilities in the Elementary Classroom, the bottom line is clear: this book is for elementary teachers who need practical, research-based strategies for students with overlapping academic and emotional needs. Jean Cheng Gorman frames the interaction between learning disabilities and emotional disorders in a way that helps teachers understand why behaviors occur and how daily classroom routines can be adapted to support both learning and well-being. The reviewer found it most valuable as a hands-on classroom guide rather than as theoretical reading for specialists.

Key Features

• Interaction focus: Explains how learning disabilities and emotional disorders influence each other so teachers can better interpret classroom behavior.
• Research-based: Draws on a clear research foundation to justify interventions and help educators feel confident applying them.
• Classroom-tested strategies: Offers practical interventions teachers can integrate into daily routines to improve student engagement and purpose.
• Resource orientation: Serves as a usable classroom guide with approaches aimed at academic, emotional and social needs of elementary students.
• Accessible overview: Part I gives a concise summary of common learning disabilities and emotional problems teachers are likely to encounter.

Who It's For

This book is best for elementary classroom teachers, special education teachers, and school-based practitioners who need concrete, classroom-ready strategies that address the overlap of learning and emotional challenges. It is particularly useful for educators seeking interventions that can be implemented within regular classroom routines rather than separate clinical programs.

It is less appropriate for readers seeking exhaustive diagnostic manuals or advanced clinical treatment protocols; school psychologists and clinicians may prefer complementary texts that go deeper into assessment and therapy methods.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical, classroom-tested interventions that teachers can adapt immediately.
• Clear explanation of the interaction between learning problems and emotional well-being.
• Research-based rationale that supports suggested strategies and builds teacher confidence.

Cons

• Not a comprehensive clinical manual, so specialists may need additional assessment resources.

Specifications

Title	Emotional Disorders and Learning Disabilities in the Elementary Classroom
Author	Jean Cheng Gorman
Audience	Elementary teachers and school practitioners
Focus	Interaction of learning disabilities and emotional disorders
Content type	Research-based, classroom-tested interventions
Use	Classroom guide for academic, emotional and social needs

Our Verdict

Emotional Disorders and Learning Disabilities in the Elementary Classroom is a pragmatic, well-grounded guide for teachers confronting intertwined academic and emotional issues. Its strength lies in translating research into day-to-day classroom interventions, making it good value for educators who need workable strategies rather than clinical depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include classroom strategies?
Yes. The text emphasizes classroom-tested, research-based interventions teachers can integrate into daily routines.

Who wrote the book and who is it aimed at?
The author is Jean Cheng Gorman, and the book is aimed primarily at elementary teachers and school practitioners.

Is this a clinical diagnostic manual?
No. It provides overviews of common disorders and practical interventions but is not a substitute for clinical assessment or treatment manuals.