Question 1

What is Selective Mutism?

Accepted Answer

Selective Mutism, also known as Situational Mutism, is an anxiety-based condition where a child or young person is able to speak comfortably in some settings but finds it extremely difficult or impossible to speak in others, such as school, childcare or public places. It is not a choice or stubborn behaviour.

Question 2

Is Selective Mutism the same as shyness?

Accepted Answer

No. While some children with Selective Mutism may appear shy, Selective Mutism is more than shyness. It involves a real fear or anxiety around speaking in certain situations, often with a strong physical and emotional response.

Question 3

Is my child choosing not to speak?

Accepted Answer

No. Children with Selective Mutism are not choosing when they will or will not speak. The silence is usually linked to anxiety and the pressure or expectation to speak in certain settings.

Question 4

When does Selective Mutism usually appear?

Accepted Answer

Selective Mutism often appears before the age of five and is commonly noticed when a child starts school or childcare. Sometimes it can be missed or misunderstood, which may delay support.

Question 5

How is Selective Mutism diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Diagnosis usually involves assessment by professionals such as a Speech Pathologist, Psychologist, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. A proper assessment should include parent/carer input, school information, and consideration of speech, language, hearing and communication needs.

Question 6

When should I seek assessment?

Accepted Answer

You should seek assessment if your child speaks freely in comfortable settings, such as at home, but becomes silent or highly anxious in other settings, such as school, daycare, with unfamiliar adults, or outside the home.

Question 7

Can Selective Mutism be treated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With appropriate support, many children can make significant progress and, in many cases, Selective Mutism can be resolved. Early intervention, school involvement, parent support and therapy are important parts of a successful plan.

Question 8

What does therapy involve?

Accepted Answer

Therapy usually focuses on reducing anxiety and building communication confidence, not forcing a child to talk. Strategies may include parent and school training, environmental changes, gradual exposure, sliding-in techniques, play-based activities, speech and language support, occupational therapy and cognitive behavioural strategies.

Question 9

Should we encourage or pressure our child to speak?

Accepted Answer

Pressure to speak can increase anxiety and make communication harder. Support is usually most effective when adults reduce pressure, create a safe environment, and help the child build confidence step by step.

Question 10

Can schools help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Schools play a major role. Teachers and support staff can help by understanding Selective Mutism, reducing pressure to speak, using alternative communication options, supporting peer interaction and working with families and therapists.

Question 11

Is medication needed?

Accepted Answer

Medication is not usually the first step and should not be used on its own. It may be considered in some cases as part of a wider treatment program, but only after less invasive interventions have been tried and with guidance from medical professionals.

Question 12

Who can help with Selective Mutism?

Accepted Answer

Support may involve Speech Pathologists, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Paediatricians, schools and families working together. Selective Mutism WA provides information, therapy, training and resources for families, schools and professionals.

Question 13

Is Selective Mutism caused by trauma?

Accepted Answer

There is no evidence that Selective Mutism is caused by trauma, abuse or neglect. It should not be confused with traumatic mutism, which may occur suddenly across all environments after a significant traumatic event.

Question 14

What should I do first if I am concerned?

Accepted Answer

Start by seeking advice from a professional with experience in Selective Mutism, such as a Speech Pathologist or Psychologist. It can also help to gather examples of when your child speaks, when they do not, who they speak to, and which environments feel easier or harder.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions