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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Selective mutism

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Symptoms:
  • Failure to speak in specific social situations
  • Shyness
  • Fear of people
  • Speaks at home with family
Signs and tests:

The essential element of selective mutism is that the child has the ability to both comprehend and speak, but fails to speak in certain settings or environments. This syndrome differs from mutism. Children with mutism never speak.

Cultural issues, such as recent immigration and bilingualism, should be noted. Children who are uncomfortable with a new language may be reluctant to use it outside of a familiar setting. This is not necessarily selective mutism.

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