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Jul 7, 2021 · Selective mutism is a rare childhood anxiety disorder in which a child experiences a trigger response and is unable to speak in certain situations or...
- SymptomsThe onset of selective mutism is usually between the ages of 3 and 6. Most children who develop selective mutism also suffer from social anxiety ,...
- What are some signs of selective mutism?Children who suffer selective mutism may appear: Shy, socially awkward, anxious , insecure and clingy, embarrassed, rude, indifferent or aloof, st...
- CausesChildren with selective mutism often have a family history of anxiety disorders. The neurological basis for selective mutism is thought to be a cas...
- Can selective mutism lead to mood disorders?Selectively mute teens may also experience mood disorders like depression , and they can suffer conditions such as agoraphobia, a fear of leaving...
- Are selective mutism and autism spectrum related?Individuals on the autism spectrum have problems with social skills and communication abilities; while they do feel empathy for others, they do n...
- TreatmentIt is best to seek behavioral therapy or family therapy as early as possible for a child with selective mutism because the condition may not go awa...
- What happens when selective mutism is left untreated?If untreated, selective mutism can in some cases follow a child into adulthood. It will affect school, family, social life , and work. All of whic...
- How can schools and teachers help a child with selective mutism?Schools and teachers can help a child in various ways: • Do not pressure the child to speak • Allow time for counseling and speech therapy • Allow...
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What is selective mutism?
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What are the symptoms of selective mutism?
- Selective Mutism Symptoms
- Diagnosis of Selective Mutism
- Causes of Selective Mutism
- Complications of Selective Mutism
- Selective Mutism Treatment
- Coping with Selective Mutism
If you believe that your child may be struggling with selective mutism, look for the following symptoms: 1. Expression of a desire to speak that is held back by anxiousness, fear, or embarrassment 2. Fidgeting, eye contact avoidance, lack of movement or lack of expression when in feared situations 3. Inability to speak in school and other specific ...
Although selective mutism is believed to have its roots in anxiety, it was not classified as an anxiety disorder until the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)published in 2013. The use of the term "selective" was adopted in 1994, prior to which the disorder was known as "elective mutism." The change wa...
Because the condition tends to be quite rare, risk factors for the condition are not fully understood. It was once believed that selective mutism was the result of childhood abuse, trauma, or upheaval. Research now suggests that the disorder is related to extreme social anxiety and that genetic predisposition is likely.Like all mental disorders, it...
Unfortunately, selective mutism may worsen anxiety. For instance, a child with selective mutism may dread going to school, where their condition makes it hard for them to be accepted among their peers. Selective mutism can lead to communication problems. An adult who has selective mutism may be perceived as judgmental or passive aggressive if peopl...
Selective mutism is most receptive to treatment when it is caught early. If your child has been silent at school for two months or longer, it is important that treatment begin promptly. Treatment for selective mutism may include therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
In addition to seeking appropriate professional treatment, there are things that you can do to help your child manage their condition. 1. Inform teachers and others who work with your child. Teachers can sometimes become frustrated or angry with children who don't speak. You can help by making sure that your child's teacher knows that the behavior ...
Oct 2, 2023 · What is selective mutism? Selective mutism (SM) is a mental health condition where you can’t talk in certain situations because of fear or anxiety. It usually affects young children, but it can also affect adolescents and adults. This condition is more than being shy, bashful or timid. SM is an anxiety disorder. It can overlap with other ...
Selective mutism ( SM) is an anxiety disorder in which a person who is otherwise capable of speech becomes unable to speak when exposed to specific situations, specific places, or to specific people, one or multiple of which serving as triggers. This is caused by the freeze response.
Sep 28, 2021 · Summary. Selective mutism is a condition in which a person can speak in some situations but not in others. For example, a child with selective mutism may speak at home...
Selective Mutism. Some children are uncomfortable speaking in unfamiliar situations or with people they don’t know. They usually start talking when they feel more comfortable. Children with selective mutism have repeated difficulty speaking, or seem afraid to communicate, at certain times or in certain places.
Selective mutism is when a child can’t speak in certain settings, but can speak fine in others. For example, a child may not be able to speak at school, but can speak with no problem at home. It is called selective mutism because the child is only mute in select situations. It’s a rare childhood condition.
