Selective mutism
By: Haley, in Category: GeneralSelective mutism is a childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a consistent failure to speak in specific social situations, despite being capable of normal speech in other settings. Children with selective mutism may be able to speak and communicate normally with family members or close friends, but may not be able to speak in school, in public places, or with strangers. Selective mutism usually begins in early childhood, typically before the age of 5, and can persist into adolescence and adulthood if left untreated.
The exact cause of selective mutism is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It is often considered an anxiety disorder, as children with selective mutism may experience intense anxiety, fear, or discomfort in certain social situations, leading to their inability to speak.
Some common signs and symptoms of selective mutism may include:
- Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations where speech is expected, such as school, public places, or with unfamiliar people.
- Limited or no verbal communication in certain situations, with the child relying on gestures, nods, or other nonverbal forms of communication.
- Excessive shyness, social withdrawal, or avoidance of social situations.
- Difficulty making eye contact or participating in group activities.
- Delayed or impaired social skills development.
It's important to note that selective mutism is not due to a lack of understanding or speech ability, but rather a difficulty in speaking in certain situations due to anxiety or fear. If you suspect that your child may have selective mutism, it's important to seek professional evaluation and support from a qualified mental health professional, such as a child psychologist or psychiatrist. Treatment may include behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and/or medication, depending on the severity and individual needs of the child. Early intervention and appropriate support can greatly improve outcomes for children with selective mutism.
Add Comment
This policy contains information about your privacy. By posting, you are declaring that you understand this policy:
- Your name, rating, website address, town, country, state and comment will be publicly displayed if entered.
- Aside from the data entered into these form fields, other stored data about your comment will include:
- Your IP address (not displayed)
- The time/date of your submission (displayed)
- Your email address will not be shared. It is collected for only two reasons:
- Administrative purposes, should a need to contact you arise.
- To inform you of new comments, should you subscribe to receive notifications.
- A cookie may be set on your computer. This is used to remember your inputs. It will expire by itself.
This policy is subject to change at any time and without notice.
These terms and conditions contain rules about posting comments. By submitting a comment, you are declaring that you agree with these rules:
- Although the administrator will attempt to moderate comments, it is impossible for every comment to have been moderated at any given time.
- You acknowledge that all comments express the views and opinions of the original author and not those of the administrator.
- You agree not to post any material which is knowingly false, obscene, hateful, threatening, harassing or invasive of a person's privacy.
- The administrator has the right to edit, move or remove any comment for any reason and without notice.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in being banned from submitting further comments.
These terms and conditions are subject to change at any time and without notice.
Articles Categories
[Primary Articles | Secondary Articles | JC Articles | University Articles | General Articles]Related Articles in Category : General
Comments