Selective Mutism: Anxiety Disorder Mistaken as Rudeness

Selective mutism may be something you've heard little, if anything, about. That can lead to a lot of misconceptions about the disorder. So let's clear things up.

Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder. An individual with this disorder simply becomes so anxious in certain situations that they cannot speak. They may never talk, whisper, or talk to a select number of people. Many people who have selective mutism also suffer from social phobia (a chronic fear of performance or social situations). This explains quite a bit. Selective mutism is not a communication disorder or an autistic spectrum disorder.

People with selective mutism are often mistaken as disrespectful, stubborn, willful, or attention getters. In reality, these individuals are none of these things. They are just so nervous that they have a really hard time looking someone in the eye or smiling in some social situations. They also look away when spoken to or confronted.

There are certain signs that may indicate a child has selective mutism, although adults can have this condition as well. Look for things like a child who won't speak in certain public places, yet they are completely comfortable talking in other places, like their home.

If this inability to speak interferes with the child's schooling or social settings, there may be a problem. If the mutism lasts for more than a month, it may not be "just a phase".

Treatment for selective mutism may include psychotherapy to treat the anxiety and improve communication skills. A behavioral program may also be incorporated into treatment to enhance communication skills. It is important to remember that a person with selective mutism can't be cajoled, tricked, or commanded to speak.

Routine and structure may help a child with selective mutism. If there is clear understanding of activities, and a predictable schedule, anxiety is reduced because the unknown is reduced. If a change in routine will take place, previewing it with the child can help reduce anxiety as well. Also, one with selective mutism may prefer to observe an activity for some time before jumping in.

To get a selectively mute child comfortable talking with new people, it may help to work in stages. Get the child comfortable talking to a person inside the home, then in the individual's home, then in public places like school.

There are many behavioral techniques that may help a child with selective mutism. Selectivemutism.org lists may resources for parents.

Sources:
http://www.selectivemutism.org/smg/KnowAChildwithSMG.htm
http://www.asha.org