About 90% of children with
selective mutism also have social anxiety, and one hypothesis is that anxiety results in a hyperexcitable amygdala, which in turn activates the central gray area, causing increased muscle tension.
Initial studies on
selective mutism indicated the prevalence of
selective mutism to be higher for girls than boys, but recent evidence suggests a more equal gender distribution (Andersson & Thomsen, 1998; Hayden, 1980; Remschmidt, Poller, Herpertz-Dahlmann, Hennighausen, & Gutenbrunner, 2001; Wilkens, 1985).
Prevalence and description of
selective mutism in a school-based sample.
Selective mutism is a complex anxiety disorder characterized by a child's inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as the school.
The behavioral variations and rate of progress varies widely among children with
selective mutism. These variations limit a manualized response.
I was surprised we had a college student with
selective mutism. I knew that pressuring such students to speak up would only make them retreat into their shells.
Selective mutism affects one in 150 children, is more common in girls, and most primary schools will know of at least one child with it.
Natasha, who has
selective mutism and other medical issues, used to lack confidence but has blossomed into a wonderful role model.
It can also cause miscarriages or leave a child at the risk of developing a disability, which can include heart defects or
selective mutism', a disorder that prevents them from speaking."
Music teacher, Miriam Choi of Melbourne, Australia works with children suffering from autism and
selective mutism.
Selective mutism (SM) is a disorder that occurs in childhood and is characterized by an inability to speak in certain settings, such as school, or in public places, as opposed to speaking at home with family members.
He had
selective mutism (anxiety disorder) and difficulty developing relationships, and was placed outside the Kirklees area but he wanted to return.
There was an especially moving moment when Ashley, who also has
selective mutism, chatted happily at length with the boys.