Selective Mutism Vanessa Roets

Which Disability Category? Selective mutism is a communication disorder that is generally categorized under Other Health Impairment (OHI), Emotional Behavioral Disorder (EBD) or Speech and Language Impairment, however; students with selective mutism may be categorized under any of the 14 disability categories.

Selective Mutism Defined Selective mutism (previously known as elective mutism) is a disorder where the child does not speak in at least one social situation, often times this is school. The child is able to speak in other settings. This communication disorder is usually first noticed when they begin school. Tracey, that means you! 

Historical Origins Selective mutism was recognized as early as 1877 in Germany. Dr. Kussmaul named this disorder “asphasia voluntaria” or voluntary mute. In 1934 an English physician, Dr. Tramer described several other cases and renamed the term elective mutism.

Historical Origins Continued Individuals with selective mutism fought to get the name changed from elective because it “suggestive of a preference; therefore the term implies a deliberate decision not to speak” The term selective mutism was first seen in the DSM IV in 1994. Selective mustims “impl[ies] a less oppositional or willful component”

Prevalence: Worth our Attention? According to the DSM-IV selective mutism is rare, it is seen in less than 1% of patients in mental health settings. Others believe selective mutism is under diagnosed and has a prevalence rate higher than autism. It should also be noted the prevalence rate is slightly higher in girls than in boys.

Characteristics Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations Not speaking interferes with school, work, or social communication Not due to another type of communication disorder (e.g., stuttering) Children with selective mutism may also show characteristics of anxiety disorders, excessive shyness, fear of social embarrassment, social isolation or withdrawal. Additionally, they may have physical symptoms such as a headache, stomach ache, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. They may avoid eye contact and play with hair or other items to distract themselves from the situation. Some will use non-verbal communication and body language to communicate with others.

Causes Selective mutism was originally thought to be the result of a traumatic event or abuse. Parents/guardians have been accused of abusing children, but this is a misconception. Current research shows that no cause has been established, however; there is a possibility of a genetic influence or susceptibility. Many people with selective mutism have family members who also had selective mutism, extreme shyness, social anxiety, or other anxiety disorders.

Identification Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) Pediatrician Psychologist/Psychiatrist Teachers (generally early childhood teachers, but not always) Family Review educational history Hearing Screening by health care professional Oral-motor exam by health care professional or SLP Parent/Guardian Interview Mental health evaluation by psych Expressive language ability by SLP Verbal and non-verbal communication by SLP

Educational Considerations Never punish a child for not speaking or force a child to speak Use multiple intelligences in the classroom Incorporate a reward system Allow student to observe before giving them the opportunity to participate, do not force them to participate Provide routine and structure to help ease anxiety

Early Intervention Understand symptoms are not intentional Consistent behavioral strategies Behavioral management programs focusing on phobia’s Desensitizing by providing short term goals Positive reinforcement and praise Early Intervention is Key

Interventions for Inclusion If student has “safe” person allow “safe” person to answer for them as they work on becoming comfortable enough to answer for themselves. Transfer “safe” person to other friends they feel comfortable around. Reinforce all efforts to communicate. Self modeling: have student view or listen to themselves communicate in a place they feel comfortable to build confidence. Forming small, cooperative groups Communicate with peers using non-verbal methods and gradually increase verbal communication. Working with family and other specialists to generalize communication to other situations.

Assessing Student Progress Assess multiple ways, not just orally. Ask trusted students or another adult to help assess. Tape recorders or video can be used to assess oral proficiency. Written language assessments Allow student to take tests in another location where they feel comfortable. Consult with other specialists and families about progress they see.

Transitions Most students will not have selective mutism their entire life. Some adults who have overcome it still report anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Transitions should be gradual, starting in a quiet place that the student feels comfortable with. As student gains confidence they can be transitioned to more verbally demanding settings Should have a way to communicate non-verbally: notebook, texting, etc. May need advocates until they can self advocate.

References http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/selectivemutism.htm www.nipissingu.ca/education/thomasr/.../SelectiveMutism.ppt www.selectivemutismfoundation.org

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