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Introducing selective mutism -

Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder that renders a person unable to speak in certain social situations, such as with schoolmates in the playground.

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Early beginnings -

Selective mutism normally develops during childhood, and in certain cases it can continue into adulthood.

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Common misconception -

It is important to recognize that a person who suffers from selective mutism does not simply decide not to speak in certain situations.

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The freeze response -

Rather, a freeze response is triggered in them with feelings of panic, and this renders speaking quite literally impossible.

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Common reaction -

In many cases of selective mutism, the sufferer will learn to recognize situations in which they freeze, and try to avoid these situations at all costs.

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Not mute all the time -

However, a person with selective mutism is able to converse normally in other situations where they feel comfortable.

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Statistics -

We are still learning about selective mutism, and in fact it is more common than you might think. It is estimated to affect about one in 140 young children.

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Affected groups -

It is also more common in people who are learning a second language, such as people who have migrated from their country of origin.

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The onset -

The onset of selective mutism normally happens between the ages of two and four. Often it is first picked up upon when a child begins to interact with people outside their family, such as schoolmates.

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Symptoms -

The main symptom of selective mutism is a marked contrast in the way a child interacts with different people.

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Sudden stillness -

When expected to speak with someone outside their comfort zone, the child may react with a sudden stillness and frozen facial expression.

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Temper tantrums -

A child with selective mutism may avoid eye contact and appear otherwise socially awkward. They may be stubborn or aggressive and more prone to temper tantrums.

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Other means of communication -

In some cases, an otherwise confident child with selective mutism may use other means of communication, such as hand gestures or body language.

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Whispering -

In the majority of cases, however, children are severely affected and tend to avoid communication altogether. They may manage to respond with a few words, or in a whisper.

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Phobia of talking -

Experts think of selective mutism as a phobia of talking to certain people. The exact cause is unclear, but it has been associated with anxiety.

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General anxiety -

Children who suffer from selective mutism generally have a tendency towards anxiety and may find it difficult to take everyday events in their stride.

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Separation from parents -

Some children find it so distressing being separated from their parents that they are unable to speak, and they become selectively mute with the adults who try to settle them.

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Speech and language problems -

Others might have a speech and language disorder or a hearing problem, which can increase levels of anxiety and make it even more difficult to speak.

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Common misconception -

There is no evidence to suggest that children with selective mutism are more likely to have experienced trauma or abuse.

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No connection -

There is also no evidence of a link between selective mutism and autism, although it is perfectly possible for a child to have both.

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Diagnosis -

If left untreated, selective mutism can lead to a host of other problems down the line. Thankfully, it is possible for children to overcome selective mutism if it is caught early enough.

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Diagnosing children -

If you suspect your child may have selective mutism and there is no help available at their school, seek a formal diagnosis from a speech and language therapist.

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Diagnosing children -

Your child may not be able to speak during the consultation, but a professional will be prepared for this and will have other ways to help your child communicate.

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Diagnosing adults -

It is also possible, although arguably more difficult, for adults to overcome selective mutism with the help of a mental health professional who has the support of a speech and language therapist.

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Treatment -

Treating selective mutism does not focus on the speaking itself, but rather on reducing or even eliminating the anxiety associated with speaking in certain situations.

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Types of treatment -

There are two key types of treatment often used to treat selective mutism: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavioral therapy.

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CBT -

CBT encourages a person to focus on how they think about themselves, others, and the world around them, and how their perceptions of these things affect the way they think and feel.

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CBT -

As a general rule, CBT is more suitable for older children and adults who struggle with selective mutism.

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Behavioral treatment -

Behavioral therapy, by contrast, focuses on working towards and reinforcing desired behaviors, while replacing bad habits with good ones.

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All in all -

Selective mutism is a complicated and tricky disorder to live with. However, with the right help and support, things can get better.

Sources: (NHS)

See also: Understanding developmental language disorder

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