Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that makes it difficult for people to speak in certain situations. It's characterized by a freeze response that's triggered by the expectation to talk to certain people.
Symptoms
- People with selective mutism can speak freely in some situations, but not in others
- They may look frozen or paralyzed when asked questions by strangers
- They may use gestures to communicate
Causes
- Selective mutism is caused by a freeze response triggered by anxiety and panic
Treatment
- Early intervention can help improve outcomes
- Treatments include stimulus fading and shaping
- Speech and language therapists can help identify and manage the condition
Helping someone with selective mutism
- Talk openly about their fear
- Acknowledge their fear
- Help them understand that the fear response is not something they can control
- Reduce demands to speak
- Avoid direct questions from unfamiliar people
- Encourage participation by using a communication method they are comfortable with
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