Beyond Shyness: Understanding Situational (Selective) Mutism
Does your child speak in some situations but not others? For instance, are they a “chatterbox” at home, but their teachers have never heard their voice? This pattern may be situational mutism.
What is Situational Mutism?
Situational mutism, sometimes called selective mutism, is an anxiety disorder where children are able to speak in some situations but not others. It often emerges around 3 years old.
It may look like:
- Talking freely at home but not elsewhere
- Talking with 1-2 peers but not the teacher
- Talking freely at school but not elsewhere
- Whispering to everyone
- Visible signs of anxiety
It is important to remember that situational mutism is not a choice, stubbornness or rudeness. Instead, it triggers a fight-or-flight response and causes the physical inability to talk. It also goes beyond general shyness.
What Causes Situational Mutism?
Situational mutism is caused by a combination of a child’s genetics and their environment. For example, if there is a strong family history of anxiety and if the child has an anxious temperament. There is no evidence indicating that situational mutism is due to trauma.
What Should I do If I Think My Child Has Situational Mutism?
If your child is showing signs of situational mutism, it’s important to seek professional help from a speech pathologist or psychologist. A “wait and see” approach is not recommended, as situational mutism becomes more difficult to treat as children grow older.
How Can I Support My Situationally Mute Child?
Do:
- Remove expectations for your child to talk.
- Focus on using comments and statements when interacting with your child, rather than asking them questions.
- Acknowledge and validate all forms of communication, such as gestures and nods.
Avoid:
- Pressuring your child to speak.
- Asking too many questions.
- Expressing frustration when your child doesn’t speak.
- Overly positive reactions to your child speaking.
- Talking for your child or telling others they “don’t talk”.
- Patience, understanding and professional guidance can make a big difference in building confidence and communication in children with situational mutism.
Sophie / Speech Pathologist (CPSP)