Summary. Multiple regression techniques have been used very infrequently to define samples of children with reading difficulties. Earlier studies have shown that children with specific reading retardation differ from generally backward readers on sex distribution, IQ distribution, and other factors. The present paper reports preliminary results of a five‐year follow‐up of disabled readers and provides evidence that whilst the prognosis for any reading disability is poor, children with specific reading retardation have a poorer prognosis than backward readers. The distinction between backwardness and retardation in reading is therefore seen to be both meaningful and of prognostic importance.