Table of Contents
Is selective mutism a form of autism?
Myth 5: Selective mutism is a form of autism. Some people confuse selective mutism with autism, but it is important to know that they are not the same disorder.
Can selective mutism be cured?
Experts don’t know how many children with selective mutism will grow out of the disorder. But what we do know is that treating it becomes much harder the older a child is, so it is extremely important not to put off treatment.
How do you know if you have selective mutism?
If you believe that your child may be struggling with selective mutism, look for the following symptoms: Expression of a desire to speak that is held back by anxiousness, fear, or embarrassment. Fidgeting, eye contact avoidance, lack of movement or lack of expression when in feared situations.
Does selective mutism ever go away?
Selective mutism typically does not go away on its own, and in fact can lead to worsened anxiety and social difficulty if not addressed. Treatment requires a cohesive plan between home and school to produce lasting change.
What age does selective mutism start?
Selective mutism often starts in very young children, around ages 2 to 4. But it may not be recognized until a child starts school.
Is selective mutism a disability?
Selective Mutism is not a Learning disability, Emotional disturbance, nor a Speech/Language impairment. A Selectively Mute student who displays any of these conditions would then have an additional and separate education need.
Does selective mutism run in families?
Why does a child develop Selective Mutism? The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. In other words, they have inherited a tendency to be anxious from one or more family members.
Is there a test for selective mutism?
Testing for Selective Mutism A speech-language pathologist, or SLP, can test your child’s speech and language. These experts may work with your family and your child’s teacher if there are problems at school. Speech and language testing may include: Talking with you about your child’s development and medical history.
Can a speech therapist help a child with selective mutism?
Selective mutism is defined in the DSM-V as a psychiatric disorder. However, selective mutism is also a disorder of communication. For that reason, a psychologist or psychiatrist must work together with a speech-language pathologist to provide treatment for a child with selective mutism.
What kind of anxiety disorder is selective mutism?
Selective mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. An individual’s pattern of mutism can vary greatly. Some children or adults never talk outside the home, some whisper, and some speak with only a select few people.
How to know if you have selective mutism?
1 Inability to speak in specific social situations that interfere with school or work 2 Appearing nervous, uneasy, or tense 3 Exhibiting extreme shyness or acting socially withdrawn
How does the SLP help with speech problems?
The SLP will also work with your child on any speech or language problems that he may have. This may include helping him say sounds clearly or helping him say words loudly. The SLP may also help him use words to ask questions or talk about his thoughts. Your child may be more willing to talk to others once he feels better about how he sounds.