Selective mutism
Selective mutism is a childhood anxiety disorder in which a child speaks in some settings but consistently cannot speak in others — typically social situations. Early therapeutic support, play therapy, and gradual exposu
Quick answer
Selective mutism is a childhood anxiety disorder in which a child speaks in some settings but consistently cannot speak in others — typically social situations. Early therapeutic support, play therapy, and gradual exposure approaches are most effective.
Do any of these feel familiar?
- Selective mutism is experienced as an inability to speak in specific social situations — most commonly school — despite speaking freely in others, such as at home
- Children with selective mutism typically wish to speak and are not choosing silence; they describe a paralysing freeze response in the presence of social anxiety that prevents speech from emerging
- Many experience significant distress, frustration, and social isolation as a result
- Gestures, nods, and whispers may be used as alternatives
- Adults are less commonly affected but can experience similar difficulties in work or social settings
- The condition is frequently misunderstood as stubbornness or refusal, compounding the child's distress and delaying appropriate support
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