1. What is Selective Mutism?
Summer Seibert, M.S., CCC-SLP
Tammy Qualls, M.S., CCC-SLP
Viki Johnson, M.A., SLP
Tara Butterworth, M.A., LSSP
Crystal Glenn, M.A., LSSP
Alexandra Hudson, Ph.D, LSSP
Adapted from information presented by
Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, President & Director of
Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center (Smart-Center)

2. Selective Mutism: Definition
A childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak in select social situations such as school
Can speak normally in certain settings such as home or with a preferred adult
Not due to shyness, stuttering, or developmental disorder, such as autism
Persisted for at least one month

3. Research Indicates Individuals who develop Selective Mutism:
Have strong family history of social anxiety
90% have social anxiety
Girls more prevalent than boys - 3:1

4. Influential Factors Genetics Brain Differences Environment
Ex. Hyper-active amygdala (responsible for feelings)
Environment
Parents or school misunderstanding & enabling
Family stress and ‘troubles’
Child modeling
Bilingual family environment

5. Precipitating Factors
Social anxiety (over 90%)
Bilingual/Multilingual (silent period)
Speech-Language factors
Personality traits (controlling, stubborn, assertive, bright, heightened perceptions)

6. Accommodations No pressure for speaking
Provide tablet and/ or tape recorder for student responses
Peer buddy
Comfortable seating within classroom
Introduce new situations in subtle and non-threatening ways
Advance warning of changes in routine

7. Things to Keep in Mind
Don’t make a big deal out of the child making sounds/ talking.
Allow for time to respond. Children with SM hesitate when anxious. Do not jump in with the response if the child is not communicating.
Praise and support the child’s efforts: “You did so well!”
Prepare child for changes/transitions: substitutes, field trips/ assemblies

8. Who to go to on Campus?
Contact your Speech Pathologist and/ or LSSP in your Special Education department about student concerns
General Education Counselor is also a great resource

9. For More Information: www.selectivemutismcenter.org