Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Selective mutism is a rare and multidimensional childhood disorder that typically affects children entering school age. It is characterized by the persistent failure to speak in select social settings despite possessing the ability to speak and speak comfortably in more familiar settings. Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. […] Although a rare disorder lacking a definite etiology, selective mutism was first identified in the 19th century when Kussmaul named it aphasia voluntaria in 1877 to describe the condition where individuals would voluntarily not speak in certain situations. […] Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. Etiological perspectives are based in psychodynamic theory, behavioral theory, associations with social phobia and social anxiety, the family systems perspective, dissociative identity disorder, and the response to trauma. Most recently, the developmental psychopathology framework aims to integrate multiple theoretical perspectives (biological, genetic, developmental, psychodynamic, behavioral, family systems, and ecological).

• #2 Selective Mutism: Symptoms & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/selective-mutism

  Selective mutism (SM) is a mental health condition where you cant talk in certain situations because of fear or anxiety. It usually affects young children, but it can also affect adolescents and adults. […] This condition is more than being shy, bashful or timid. SM is an anxiety disorder. It can overlap with other anxiety-related conditions and have lingering effects later in life. […] Experts cant fully explain why SM happens. However, they suspect several possible factors may cause or contribute to it. These include: […] SM has strong connections to other mental health conditions. These arent necessarily causes. Theyre simply more likely to happen in people with SM. These conditions include: […] Anxiety disorders can run in families. People with SM are much more likely to have a first-degree relative (a parent, sibling or child) with SM or another anxiety disorder.

• #3 Selective Mutism | Cedars-Sinai

  https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions—pediatrics/s/selective-mutism.html

  Selective mutism is not caused by a child’s willful refusal to speak. […] There is no single known cause of selective mutism. Researchers are still learning about factors that can lead to selective mutism, such as: An anxiety disorder, Poor family relationships, Untreated psychological issues, Self-esteem problems, Problems with sound processing, A speech or language problem, such as stuttering, Family history of anxiety disorders, A traumatic experience. […] Selective mutism can also run in families.

• #4 Selective mutism – PubMed

  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26709680/

  Selective mutism is a disorder in which an individual fails to speak in certain social situations though speaks normally in other settings. […] Studies over the past 20 years have consistently demonstrated a strong relationship between selective mutism and anxiety, most notably social phobia. […] In addition to anxiety, several other factors have been implicated in the development of selective mutism, including communication delays and immigration/bilingualism, adding to the complexity of the disorder. […] The development of selective mutism appears to result from the interplay of a variety of genetic, temperamental, environmental, and developmental factors.

• #5 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  The development of selective mutism is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, temperamental, environmental, and familial factors, with familial history of anxiety disorders and social influences playing a significant role. Cohan et al. (2006) highlight that the causes of selective mutism are complex and multifaceted, involving a combination of genetic, temperamental, environmental, and familial factors. Many children with selective mutism have a family history of anxiety disorders, indicating a possible genetic predisposition. These children may also display characteristics of social anxiety, extreme shyness, or introversion. The presence of a family history of anxiety disorders suggests a genetic component, which may predispose children to anxiety-related conditions. Environmental factors, such as overprotective parenting or a lack of exposure to social interactions at an early age, can also contribute to the development of selective mutism.

• #6 Selective Mutism: Definition, Traits, Causes, Treatment

  https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-selective-mutism-3024702

  Selective mutism is believed to have its roots in anxiety, it was not classified as an anxiety disorder until the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published in 2013. […] Research now suggests that the disorder is related to extreme social anxiety and that genetic predisposition is likely. Like all mental disorders, it is unlikely that there is one single cause. […] Other potential causes include temperament and the environment. Children who are behaviorally inhibited or who have language difficulties may be more prone to developing the condition. Parents who have social anxiety and model inhibited behaviors may also play a role.

• #7 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a childs inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. […] More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. […] The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. […] Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety, such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on. […] Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. […] Most, if not all, of the distinctive behavioral characteristics that children with Selective Mutism portray can be explained by the studied hypothesis that children with inhibited temperaments have a decreased threshold of excitability in the almond-shaped area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #8 Selective mutism: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001546.htm

  Selective mutism is most common in children under age 5. The cause, or causes, are unknown. Most experts believe that children with the condition inherit a tendency to be anxious and inhibited. Most children with selective mutism have some form of extreme social fear (phobia). […] Some affected children have a family history of selective mutism, extreme shyness, or anxiety disorders, which may increase their risk for similar problems. […] The person’s history of mutism should also be considered. People who have been through trauma may show some of the same symptoms seen in selective mutism.

• #9 Selective Mutism

  https://healthlibrary.uwmedicine.org/Search/160,107

  Selective mutism means that a child cant speak in certain settings but can speak fine in others. […] Selective mutism is not caused by a childs willful refusal to speak. […] There is no single known cause of selective mutism. Researchers are still learning about the things that can lead to selective mutism, such as: An anxiety disorder. Poor family relationships. Untreated psychological issues. Self-esteem problems. Problems with sound processing. A speech or language problem, such as stuttering. Family history of anxiety disorders. A traumatic experience. […] Selective mutism can also run in families. […] A family history of the condition may increase your childs risk. Your child may also be more likely to show signs of selective mutism if anxiety disorders run in your family. A traumatic event may increase the risk too.

• #10 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a childs inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. […] More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. […] The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. […] Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety, such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on. […] Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. […] Most, if not all, of the distinctive behavioral characteristics that children with Selective Mutism portray can be explained by the studied hypothesis that children with inhibited temperaments have a decreased threshold of excitability in the almond-shaped area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #11 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a childs inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. […] More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. […] The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. […] Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety, such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on. […] Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. […] Most, if not all, of the distinctive behavioral characteristics that children with Selective Mutism portray can be explained by the studied hypothesis that children with inhibited temperaments have a decreased threshold of excitability in the almond-shaped area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #12 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a childs inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. […] More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. […] The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. […] Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety, such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on. […] Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. […] Most, if not all, of the distinctive behavioral characteristics that children with Selective Mutism portray can be explained by the studied hypothesis that children with inhibited temperaments have a decreased threshold of excitability in the almond-shaped area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #13 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  Studies show that children with selective mutism have a low threshold of excitability in a portion of their brain called the amygdala, which explains most of the behavioral issues these children exhibit. The amygdala senses potential danger by processing signals from the sympathetic nervous system. In a fearful situation, it triggers a series of reactions that help people protect themselves. Children with the disorder perceive settings such as school, birthday parties, and gatherings as fearful scenarios and hence their amygdala senses danger at these situations thus triggering anxiety. […] Speech or language abnormalities are seen in about 25% of children with selective mutism. Others may experience minor learning disabilities and shyness. These disabilities add to the child’s stress and make the child insecure in fearful situations where they are expected to speak. However, some studies show that many children affected by selective mutism are early and fluent speakers and don’t show any signs of any other abnormality or processing disorder.

• #14 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  Selective Mutism (SM) is an early-onset disorder that is often diagnosed when children are first entering school. However, it may begin at much younger ages, and there are several factors that can indicate future development of SM. The typical psychological factors contributing to the development of selective mutism are generally considered to be a child’s natural temperament, the existence of behavioural inhibition, and their familial situation. There are also arguments that a biological component plays a role (Astendig, 1999). […] Dow et al. (1995) proposed that biological factors correlate to the later development of selective mutism, stating that “familial history of shyness, SM, or anxiety disorders [is] a precursor to a child developing mutism symptomatology”. Additionally, Stein et al. (2011) states that the CNTNAP2 (rs2710102) gene polymorphism is associated with greater risk of SM manifestation during childhood as well as greater risk of experiencing increased social anxiety during adulthood. The existence of this gene polymorphism that contributes to SM risk, alongside a strong correlation between familial history of anxiety disorders and the development of SM, points to the existence of biological factors as a predisposition, but not necessarily a primary cause. In other words, not only is familial history an indicating factor of selective mutism, a specific gene has also been linked to selective mutism.

• #15 Selective Mutism & Autism: Causes & Treatment | Heartlinks

  https://heartlinksaba.com/selective-mutism-and-autism/

  Selective mutism occurs when children speak in comfortable or familiar situations with people they know but cannot communicate in specific settings with others. […] Social anxiety is considered the primary cause of selective mutism. This type of anxiety disorder can result in excessive stress, fear of embarrassment, and self-consciousness. […] Research has shown there to be a genetic link between selective mutism and autism. It is the CNTNAP2 gene that has been shown to cause an increased susceptibility in children with autism and also to have selective mutism. […] The confusion lies in the DSM-5, which states that a person cannot have selective mutism if they’ve already been diagnosed as autistic. It stipulates that autism and selective mutism are not connected. Yet, research has indicated that 63% of those with selective mutism (SM) also had autism, while an additional 20% exhibited autistic traits.

• #16 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  Selective Mutism (SM) is an early-onset disorder that is often diagnosed when children are first entering school. However, it may begin at much younger ages, and there are several factors that can indicate future development of SM. The typical psychological factors contributing to the development of selective mutism are generally considered to be a child’s natural temperament, the existence of behavioural inhibition, and their familial situation. There are also arguments that a biological component plays a role (Astendig, 1999). […] Dow et al. (1995) proposed that biological factors correlate to the later development of selective mutism, stating that “familial history of shyness, SM, or anxiety disorders [is] a precursor to a child developing mutism symptomatology”. Additionally, Stein et al. (2011) states that the CNTNAP2 (rs2710102) gene polymorphism is associated with greater risk of SM manifestation during childhood as well as greater risk of experiencing increased social anxiety during adulthood. The existence of this gene polymorphism that contributes to SM risk, alongside a strong correlation between familial history of anxiety disorders and the development of SM, points to the existence of biological factors as a predisposition, but not necessarily a primary cause. In other words, not only is familial history an indicating factor of selective mutism, a specific gene has also been linked to selective mutism.

• #17 Selective mutism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_mutism

  Selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder in which a person who is otherwise capable of speech becomes unable to speak when exposed to specific situations, specific places, or to specific people, one or multiple of which serve as triggers. Selective mutism usually co-exists with social anxiety disorder. […] Selective mutism is strongly associated with other anxiety disorders, particularly social anxiety disorder. In fact, the majority of children diagnosed with selective mutism also have social anxiety disorder (100% of participants in two studies and 97% in another). Some researchers therefore speculate that selective mutism may be an avoidance strategy used by a subgroup of children with social anxiety disorder to reduce their distress in social situations. […] Most children and adults with selective mutism are hypothesized to have an inherited predisposition to anxiety. They often have inhibited temperaments, which is hypothesized to be the result of over-excitability of the area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #18 Selective mutism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_mutism

  Selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder in which a person who is otherwise capable of speech becomes unable to speak when exposed to specific situations, specific places, or to specific people, one or multiple of which serve as triggers. Selective mutism usually co-exists with social anxiety disorder. […] Selective mutism is strongly associated with other anxiety disorders, particularly social anxiety disorder. In fact, the majority of children diagnosed with selective mutism also have social anxiety disorder (100% of participants in two studies and 97% in another). Some researchers therefore speculate that selective mutism may be an avoidance strategy used by a subgroup of children with social anxiety disorder to reduce their distress in social situations. […] Most children and adults with selective mutism are hypothesized to have an inherited predisposition to anxiety. They often have inhibited temperaments, which is hypothesized to be the result of over-excitability of the area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #19 Silent Suffering: Children with Selective Mutism – The Professional Counselor

  https://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/silent-suffering-children-with-selective-mutism/

  However, according to more recent studies, children who have experienced trauma are not more likely to develop selective mutism, and early childhood trauma is rarely associated with the development of the disorder. […] Current conceptualizations of selective mutism link the disorder to anxiety, namely social phobia. […] Research has shown that anxiety disorders generally run in families. With regard to selective mutism, parents of children who have selective mutism are likely to exhibit signs of moderate to severe anxiety. […] There also is mixed evidence concerning the association between developmental delays and selective mutism. […] Although the exact cause of selective mutism is unknown, researchers generally agree that selective mutism does not fall under the realm of speech/language disorders, communication disorders, defiant behavior, or shyness. […] Anxiety appears to be the most likely culprit at the core of this disorder. There is evidence that family history of anxiety often plays a role in the disorder while speech and language problems, along with willful opposition, do not seem to contribute to the development of selective mutism.

• #20 Selective mutism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_mutism

  Selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder in which a person who is otherwise capable of speech becomes unable to speak when exposed to specific situations, specific places, or to specific people, one or multiple of which serve as triggers. Selective mutism usually co-exists with social anxiety disorder. […] Selective mutism is strongly associated with other anxiety disorders, particularly social anxiety disorder. In fact, the majority of children diagnosed with selective mutism also have social anxiety disorder (100% of participants in two studies and 97% in another). Some researchers therefore speculate that selective mutism may be an avoidance strategy used by a subgroup of children with social anxiety disorder to reduce their distress in social situations. […] Most children and adults with selective mutism are hypothesized to have an inherited predisposition to anxiety. They often have inhibited temperaments, which is hypothesized to be the result of over-excitability of the area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #21 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Selective Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a childs inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. […] More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. […] The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. […] Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety, such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on. […] Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. […] Most, if not all, of the distinctive behavioral characteristics that children with Selective Mutism portray can be explained by the studied hypothesis that children with inhibited temperaments have a decreased threshold of excitability in the almond-shaped area of the brain called the amygdala.

• #22 Selective Mutism: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

  https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/mental-health-and-behavior/selective-mutism

  While traumatic events may result in the onset of selective mutism, this is extremely rare. […] Selective mutism can affect anybody of any age, though diagnosis typically occurs in childhood. Around 1 in 140 children will develop selective mutism. […] Children with anxiety disorders are more likely to experience selective mutism. Around 70% of children with selective mutism also meet the criteria for social anxiety disorder. […] A child is more likely to develop selective mutism if they are bilingual. Although being bilingual does not cause selective mutism, being asked to speak a language they are not comfortable with may cause anxiety, which can manifest as selective mutism. […] It is possible that selective mutism can continue into adulthood. Without treatment, adults who experienced selective mutism as a child may develop conditions such as depression, avoidant personality disorder, or substance misuse. […] Treating selective mutism and social phobias in childhood can help to prevent adults from developing complications later in life.

• #23 Selective Mutism: Signs and Causes – Leaf Complex Care

  https://leafcare.co.uk/blog/selective-mutism-signs-and-causes/

  Selective mutism is a unique and challenging anxiety disorder that primarily affects children. […] The root cause of selective mutism is often linked to social anxiety disorder, where children experience intense fear and discomfort in social situations. […] Recent research suggests that family history can play a role, indicating that children with relatives who have anxiety disorders or mood disorders might be more susceptible to developing selective mutism. […] It is also related to extreme social anxiety, which affects how children interact with others, especially outside their comfort zone. […] Additionally, it tends to emerge at an early age, often around primary school, and if left untreated, it can persist into older childhood and adolescence. […] The presence of other children can contribute significantly to a child’s anxiety levels, especially if they feel pressured to speak or fear being judged. […] Sometimes, children may have experienced a traumatic event or high levels of stress, further heightening the difficulty. […] Selective mutism can have genetic influences. […] Scientists believe that specific genes may play a role in making some individuals more prone to selective mutism.

• #24 Selective Mutism & Autism: Causes & Treatment | Heartlinks

  https://heartlinksaba.com/selective-mutism-and-autism/

  Selective mutism occurs when children speak in comfortable or familiar situations with people they know but cannot communicate in specific settings with others. […] Social anxiety is considered the primary cause of selective mutism. This type of anxiety disorder can result in excessive stress, fear of embarrassment, and self-consciousness. […] Research has shown there to be a genetic link between selective mutism and autism. It is the CNTNAP2 gene that has been shown to cause an increased susceptibility in children with autism and also to have selective mutism. […] The confusion lies in the DSM-5, which states that a person cannot have selective mutism if they’ve already been diagnosed as autistic. It stipulates that autism and selective mutism are not connected. Yet, research has indicated that 63% of those with selective mutism (SM) also had autism, while an additional 20% exhibited autistic traits.

• #25 How to Recognize Selective Mutism :: The Baker Center For Children and Families

  https://www.bakercenter.org/selective-mutism1

  Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that makes it difficult for a child to speak with others in specific settings. […] Children with selective mutism experience an actual fear of speaking and an inability to speak appropriately in interactions where they are expected to communicate outside of the home; for many kids, this fear is rooted in a worry about being embarrassed or negatively judged. […] Kids with selective mutism most often have a genetic predisposition to anxiety that has been passed along by one or more family members. […] Some research has found that children with selective mutism have a decreased threshold of excitability in the amygdala in their brains. […] The longer that a child is inhibited by selective mutism in their life, the more challenging it will be to address it effectively later. […] If left untreated, selective mutism can lead to worsening anxiety, social isolation and withdrawal, school refusal, and possible symptoms of depression.

• #26 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Some children with Selective Mutism have Sensory Processing Disorder (DSI) which means they have trouble processing specific sensory information. […] Some children (20-30%) with Selective Mutism have subtle speech and/or language abnormalities such as receptive and/or expressive language abnormalities and language delays. […] Research at the Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center (SMart Center) indicates that there is a proportion of children with Selective Mutism who come from bilingual/multilingual families, have spent time in a foreign country, and/or have been exposed to another language during their formative language development (ages 2-4 years old). […] Studies have shown no evidence that the cause of Selective Mutism is related to abuse, neglect or trauma. […] The main goals of treatment should be to lower anxiety, increase self-esteem and increase social confidence and communication.

• #27 Selective mutism – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_mutism

  Given the very high incidence of social anxiety disorder within selective mutism (as high as 100% in some studies), it is possible that social anxiety disorder causes selective mutism. […] About 20-30% of children or adults with selective mutism have speech or language disorders that add stress to situations in which the child is expected to speak. […] Some previous studies on the subject of selective mutism have been dismissed as containing serious flaws in their design. According to a more recent systematic study it is believed that children or adults who have selective mutism are not more likely than other children or adults to have a history of early trauma or stressful life events.

• #28 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  Studies show that children with selective mutism have a low threshold of excitability in a portion of their brain called the amygdala, which explains most of the behavioral issues these children exhibit. The amygdala senses potential danger by processing signals from the sympathetic nervous system. In a fearful situation, it triggers a series of reactions that help people protect themselves. Children with the disorder perceive settings such as school, birthday parties, and gatherings as fearful scenarios and hence their amygdala senses danger at these situations thus triggering anxiety. […] Speech or language abnormalities are seen in about 25% of children with selective mutism. Others may experience minor learning disabilities and shyness. These disabilities add to the child’s stress and make the child insecure in fearful situations where they are expected to speak. However, some studies show that many children affected by selective mutism are early and fluent speakers and don’t show any signs of any other abnormality or processing disorder.

• #29 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Some children with Selective Mutism have Sensory Processing Disorder (DSI) which means they have trouble processing specific sensory information. […] Some children (20-30%) with Selective Mutism have subtle speech and/or language abnormalities such as receptive and/or expressive language abnormalities and language delays. […] Research at the Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center (SMart Center) indicates that there is a proportion of children with Selective Mutism who come from bilingual/multilingual families, have spent time in a foreign country, and/or have been exposed to another language during their formative language development (ages 2-4 years old). […] Studies have shown no evidence that the cause of Selective Mutism is related to abuse, neglect or trauma. […] The main goals of treatment should be to lower anxiety, increase self-esteem and increase social confidence and communication.

• #30 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  There are several risk factors for selective mutism, all of which play a key role in the development of the disorder. These factors include a family history of anxiety, speech issues, language problems, and a tendency to avoid unfamiliar settings. There is no evidence that abuse or neglect can cause selective mutism in children or adolescents. […] Most children with the condition are genetically predisposed to anxiety disorder. They show signs of severe anxiety, including tantrums and crying, separation anxiety, moodiness, sleep issues, and shyness right from infancy. These children have severe inhibitions, which make them more prone to anxiety. […] Some children who suffer from selective mutism also have a sensory processing disorder, which makes it tough for them to process some sensory information. Such children might be sensitive to light, sound, touch, smell, and taste. This can sometimes make children misinterpret social and environmental cues, thus leading to anxiety and frustration. The child thus starts shutting down and withdrawing from such situations.

• #31 Selective Mutism

  https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/clinical-topics/selective-mutism/?srsltid=AfmBOoqebODhIv5ZcBs6fCgl9KXs2hPBBraUe0F6zchk_yxgEKcHzhZh

  No single cause of selective mutism has been identified, and its causes may be multifactorial (Cohan, Price, Stein, 2006). The following factors may coexist and play a role in selective mutism: […] Psychological factors, such as social phobia, separation anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (Beidel Turner, 2007; Black Uhde, 1995; Manassis et al., 2003). […] Hereditary or genetic predisposition of selective mutism and social anxiety disorder (Black Uhde, 1995; Cohan, Price, Stein, 2006; Viana et al., 2009). […] Family and environmental factors, such as reduced opportunities for social contact, parenting style, or reinforced avoidance behaviors (Viana et al., 2009). […] Neurological/neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities, such as delays in achieving speech, language, or fine and gross motor milestones (Viana et al., 2009). […] Overactive autonomic nervous system response that impacts physiological, sensory, and emotional-behavioral responses (e.g., Melfsen et al., 2021). […] Other factors, such as shy or timid temperament (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; Steinhausen Juzi, 1996).

• #32 Selective Mutism & Autism: Causes & Treatment | Heartlinks

  https://heartlinksaba.com/selective-mutism-and-autism/

  Selective mutism occurs when children speak in comfortable or familiar situations with people they know but cannot communicate in specific settings with others. […] Social anxiety is considered the primary cause of selective mutism. This type of anxiety disorder can result in excessive stress, fear of embarrassment, and self-consciousness. […] Research has shown there to be a genetic link between selective mutism and autism. It is the CNTNAP2 gene that has been shown to cause an increased susceptibility in children with autism and also to have selective mutism. […] The confusion lies in the DSM-5, which states that a person cannot have selective mutism if they’ve already been diagnosed as autistic. It stipulates that autism and selective mutism are not connected. Yet, research has indicated that 63% of those with selective mutism (SM) also had autism, while an additional 20% exhibited autistic traits.

• #33 What Causes Selective Mutism? | Forte Speech & Language Therapy | LA Speech Therapists

  https://www.fortespeech.com/what-causes-selective-mutism/

  Selective mutism, also known as situational mutism, is considered a childhood anxiety disorder. […] We don’t yet fully understand what causes selective mutism. However, we do know there are several factors linked with it. These factors include anxiety disorders, autism, and sensory processing disorder. […] If your child has an anxiety disorder, it means they experience excessive fear or anxiety. […] While selective mutism is considered an anxiety disorder itself, it can be accompanied with other anxiety disorders. […] In some instances, children may be autistic and also have selective mutism. […] A 2018 study by Steffenburg et. al. looked at the medical records of a group of kids who were diagnosed with selective mutism. They found that 63% of those children also had a diagnosis of autism.

• #34 What is Selective Mutism?

  https://selectivemutismcenter.org/what-is-selective-mutism/

  Some children with Selective Mutism have Sensory Processing Disorder (DSI) which means they have trouble processing specific sensory information. […] Some children (20-30%) with Selective Mutism have subtle speech and/or language abnormalities such as receptive and/or expressive language abnormalities and language delays. […] Research at the Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center (SMart Center) indicates that there is a proportion of children with Selective Mutism who come from bilingual/multilingual families, have spent time in a foreign country, and/or have been exposed to another language during their formative language development (ages 2-4 years old). […] Studies have shown no evidence that the cause of Selective Mutism is related to abuse, neglect or trauma. […] The main goals of treatment should be to lower anxiety, increase self-esteem and increase social confidence and communication.

• #35 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  According to the Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center, some kids with selective mutism are part of a multilingual family or were exposed to new languages in childhood or have lived in a foreign country. In these children, there is this added stress of speaking multiple languages, which causes a sense of insecurity gradually leading to higher anxiety levels and thus mutism. […] A small proportion of children affected by selective mutism do not exhibit timidity or shyness or any signs of social anxiety. They are good performers and even attention seekers. Research shows that causes for mutism in these children can be different and they may be just stuck with non-verbal expressions and are not confident enough or reluctant to try out verbal communication. […] Negative reinforcement of mutism helps in maintaining selective mutism in children. When a child is caught up in a fearful scenario and is mute, usually an adult who can be a parent or teacher tries to help him out by answering the question on the child’s behalf or in other words rescues the child. This is a quite common scenario for children with selective mutism at school, a store, or when guests come over.

• #36 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  It is difficult to describe an exhaustive set of the causes or demographics for selective mutism, as there are many factors that affect its development in children. However, studies have shown higher cases of selective mutism in children with higher levels of anxiety. In a study with 30 children, half monolingual and half bilingual, aged 3-5 years old, higher levels of anxiety were reported in the children with insufficient language reception skills, according to the paper written by Anja Starke. Additionally, the study found that while solely being bilingual was not a causal factor in the development of selective mutism in the children, being bilingual and having higher levels of anxiety resulted in significantly more cases of the development of selective mutism. […] One study shows that when comparing data of children affected by the disorder, immigrant children are three times as likely as native children to develop selective mutism, with a prevalence of 0.5% in native children, compared to 2.2% in immigrant children (Hu, 2022). This may be due to immigration trauma in tandem with the anxiety and stress that is linked with significant changes in one’s life, especially in children.

• #37 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  It is difficult to describe an exhaustive set of the causes or demographics for selective mutism, as there are many factors that affect its development in children. However, studies have shown higher cases of selective mutism in children with higher levels of anxiety. In a study with 30 children, half monolingual and half bilingual, aged 3-5 years old, higher levels of anxiety were reported in the children with insufficient language reception skills, according to the paper written by Anja Starke. Additionally, the study found that while solely being bilingual was not a causal factor in the development of selective mutism in the children, being bilingual and having higher levels of anxiety resulted in significantly more cases of the development of selective mutism. […] One study shows that when comparing data of children affected by the disorder, immigrant children are three times as likely as native children to develop selective mutism, with a prevalence of 0.5% in native children, compared to 2.2% in immigrant children (Hu, 2022). This may be due to immigration trauma in tandem with the anxiety and stress that is linked with significant changes in one’s life, especially in children.

• #38 Selective Mutism

  https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/clinical-topics/selective-mutism/?srsltid=AfmBOoqebODhIv5ZcBs6fCgl9KXs2hPBBraUe0F6zchk_yxgEKcHzhZh

  No single cause of selective mutism has been identified, and its causes may be multifactorial (Cohan, Price, Stein, 2006). The following factors may coexist and play a role in selective mutism: […] Psychological factors, such as social phobia, separation anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (Beidel Turner, 2007; Black Uhde, 1995; Manassis et al., 2003). […] Hereditary or genetic predisposition of selective mutism and social anxiety disorder (Black Uhde, 1995; Cohan, Price, Stein, 2006; Viana et al., 2009). […] Family and environmental factors, such as reduced opportunities for social contact, parenting style, or reinforced avoidance behaviors (Viana et al., 2009). […] Neurological/neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities, such as delays in achieving speech, language, or fine and gross motor milestones (Viana et al., 2009). […] Overactive autonomic nervous system response that impacts physiological, sensory, and emotional-behavioral responses (e.g., Melfsen et al., 2021). […] Other factors, such as shy or timid temperament (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; Steinhausen Juzi, 1996).

• #39 Best Residential Treatment for Teen Selective Mutism

  https://keyhealthcare.com/best-residential-treatment-for-selective-mutism-in-teens/

  Family and environmental factors. Teens who develop selective mutism may learn the behavior, while parenting styles and avoidance behavior may reinforce it. […] Selective mutism diagnosis is often made early, typically between the ages of 3 and 6. It is also attributable to three primary triggers, i.e., person, activity, and place. These triggers may impair your teen’s ability to engage with peers and affect their quality of life.

• #40 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  According to the Selective Mutism Anxiety Research and Treatment Center, some kids with selective mutism are part of a multilingual family or were exposed to new languages in childhood or have lived in a foreign country. In these children, there is this added stress of speaking multiple languages, which causes a sense of insecurity gradually leading to higher anxiety levels and thus mutism. […] A small proportion of children affected by selective mutism do not exhibit timidity or shyness or any signs of social anxiety. They are good performers and even attention seekers. Research shows that causes for mutism in these children can be different and they may be just stuck with non-verbal expressions and are not confident enough or reluctant to try out verbal communication. […] Negative reinforcement of mutism helps in maintaining selective mutism in children. When a child is caught up in a fearful scenario and is mute, usually an adult who can be a parent or teacher tries to help him out by answering the question on the child’s behalf or in other words rescues the child. This is a quite common scenario for children with selective mutism at school, a store, or when guests come over.

• #41 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Causes-and-Risk-Factors-for-Selective-Mutism.aspx

  Rescue behavior reinforces mutism in these children as the child realizes if he or she keeps quiet, there are others who will rescue her from the situation by talking for her. Each rescue makes the child feel better temporarily as it relieves him or her of anxiety, but this gradually leads to a cycle of anxiety avoidance in the child. In a few months, this becomes a habit for the child and the adults who rescue the child and it becomes harder to break.

• #42 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #43 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #44 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #45 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #46 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #47 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Psychodynamic theory emphasizes the concept of unresolved conflict. In the context of selective mutism, the assumption is that the child has an oral and/or anal fixation and may be maintaining a family secret, displacing anger toward a parent, or regressing to a nonverbal stage in his or her development. […] Behavioral theory offers a different explanation of selective mutism based in negatively reinforced learning. The failure to speak is interpreted as a learned strategy for manipulating the environment in response to a variety of social triggers. […] More recently, selective mutism has been explained in the context of social phobia, as proposed by Black and Uhde. They propose that selective mutism is a variant of social phobia characterized by excessive social anxiety. […] Another theory for selective mutism is the family systems model. This perspective is based on the observation that many children experience neurotic relationships with their parents (most commonly the mother).

• #48 What is Selective Mutism? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment – MEDvidi

  https://medvidi.com/blog/how-selective-mutism-affects-adults-ways-to-deal-with-it

  Speech delay is common in people with selective mutism. Adults with this disorder may likely suffer from auditory problems in childhood, leading to speech delays. However, these difficulties are subtle in nature and do not warrant a diagnosis of their own. […] Unresolved childhood conflicts may cause a person to use mute behavior as a defense mechanism. […] Specific social triggers cause adaptive behavior changes that result in failure to speak in different situations. […] Past traumatic experiences may cause mute behavior as a part of multiple personalities exhibited in dissociative identity disorder. […] Unhealthy intense attachments and detachments with parents may be the primary cause of this disorder. […] Selective mutism is a part of the social phobia spectrum marked by exaggerated social anxiety. […] Dissociative features of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are linked to selective mutism.

• #49 Silent Suffering: Children with Selective Mutism – The Professional Counselor

  https://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/silent-suffering-children-with-selective-mutism/

  Despite increasing awareness, the childhood disorder of selective mutism is under-researched and commonly misdiagnosed. […] The lack of quality research and general awareness of selective mutism are serious barriers to helping children who suffer from this disorder. […] The purpose of this article is to increase awareness about selective mutism as well as provide an overview of current issues associated with this disorder. Major themes related to etiology and current trends in treatment will be addressed. […] There is little consensus regarding the etiology of selective mutism. Psychoanalysts have cited unresolved internal conflicts as the cause of selective mutism. […] Family systems theorists argue that children with selective mutism are part of faulty family relationships. […] Early theorists argued that trauma or major life events, such as abuse or the death of a loved one, trigger the onset of selective mutism.

• #50 Silent Suffering: Children with Selective Mutism – The Professional Counselor

  https://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/silent-suffering-children-with-selective-mutism/

  However, according to more recent studies, children who have experienced trauma are not more likely to develop selective mutism, and early childhood trauma is rarely associated with the development of the disorder. […] Current conceptualizations of selective mutism link the disorder to anxiety, namely social phobia. […] Research has shown that anxiety disorders generally run in families. With regard to selective mutism, parents of children who have selective mutism are likely to exhibit signs of moderate to severe anxiety. […] There also is mixed evidence concerning the association between developmental delays and selective mutism. […] Although the exact cause of selective mutism is unknown, researchers generally agree that selective mutism does not fall under the realm of speech/language disorders, communication disorders, defiant behavior, or shyness. […] Anxiety appears to be the most likely culprit at the core of this disorder. There is evidence that family history of anxiety often plays a role in the disorder while speech and language problems, along with willful opposition, do not seem to contribute to the development of selective mutism.

• #51 What is SM? | Selective Mutism Association

  https://www.selectivemutism.org/what-is-sm/

  Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by a person’s inability to speak in certain social settings such as at school, work, or in the community. […] There is no single cause of selective mutism, but it is generally understood to be an anxiety disorder related to shyness, social anxiety, and inhibited temperament in which speaking situations are avoided and this avoidant behavior gets reinforced over time. […] Disorders such as expressive/receptive language and communication disorders may increase a person’s risk for developing SM. […] Some research also suggests that being bilingual may increase a person’s risk for developing SM as compared to monolingual speakers. […] Although extremely rare, traumatic or stressful events may be related to the onset of SM. The majority of people with SM do not report a history of traumatic events.

• #52 Home | Selective Mutism Association

  https://www.selectivemutism.org/

  What causes selective mutism? There is no single cause of SM, but it is generally understood to be an anxiety disorder that can be related to shyness, social anxiety, and inhibited temperament in which speaking situations are avoided and this avoidant behavior gets reinforced over time. […] Some evidence suggests a genetic link between children with SM and anxious parents or family members. There is further evidence that behaviorally inhibited children have a decreased threshold of excitability in the amygdala, the area of the brain that receives and processes signals of potential threats. […] Disorders such as expressive/receptive language and communication disorders may increase a person’s risk for developing SM. Some research also suggests that being bilingual may increase a person’s risk for developing SM as compared to monolingual speakers. […] Although extremely rare, traumatic or stressful events may be related to the onset of SM. The majority of people with SM do not report a history of traumatic events.

• #53 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #54 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #55 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #56 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #57 Selective Mutism in Adults – Leaf Complex Care

  https://leafcare.co.uk/blog/selective-mutism-in-adults/

  Underlying communication disorders, such as speech or language difficulties, can also contribute. […] Family dynamics and upbringing can influence the development of selective mutism. […] Factors contributing to selective mutism in adults include: Extreme social anxiety is a primary factor leading to selective mutism. […] A speech and language disorder during childhood can lead to difficulties in communication, which might develop selective mutism in adulthood. […] Traumatic events, abuse, or neglect during early childhood can contribute to the development of selective mutism later in life. […] There might be a genetic component that makes some individuals more susceptible to anxiety disorders, including selective mutism. […] Stressful home environments, significant life changes, or disruptions can impact a person’s verbal communication ability. […] Traumatic experiences such as accidents, witnessing violence or the loss of a loved one can trigger selective mutism as a coping mechanism.

• #58 How to Recognize Selective Mutism :: The Baker Center For Children and Families

  https://www.bakercenter.org/selective-mutism1

  Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that makes it difficult for a child to speak with others in specific settings. […] Children with selective mutism experience an actual fear of speaking and an inability to speak appropriately in interactions where they are expected to communicate outside of the home; for many kids, this fear is rooted in a worry about being embarrassed or negatively judged. […] Kids with selective mutism most often have a genetic predisposition to anxiety that has been passed along by one or more family members. […] Some research has found that children with selective mutism have a decreased threshold of excitability in the amygdala in their brains. […] The longer that a child is inhibited by selective mutism in their life, the more challenging it will be to address it effectively later. […] If left untreated, selective mutism can lead to worsening anxiety, social isolation and withdrawal, school refusal, and possible symptoms of depression.

• #59 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #60 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Selective mutism may also be explained in the context of a dissociative identity disorder. […] Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociative features has also been associated as a potential precursor of selective mutism. […] A relatively new and integrated hypothesis for selective mutism derives from a developmental psychopathology framework that emphasizes that multiple contextual variables interact with potential anxious predispositions in children with selective mutism.

• #61 Selective Mutism

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2861522/

  Selective mutism is a rare and multidimensional childhood disorder that typically affects children entering school age. It is characterized by the persistent failure to speak in select social settings despite possessing the ability to speak and speak comfortably in more familiar settings. Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. […] Although a rare disorder lacking a definite etiology, selective mutism was first identified in the 19th century when Kussmaul named it aphasia voluntaria in 1877 to describe the condition where individuals would voluntarily not speak in certain situations. […] Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. Etiological perspectives are based in psychodynamic theory, behavioral theory, associations with social phobia and social anxiety, the family systems perspective, dissociative identity disorder, and the response to trauma. Most recently, the developmental psychopathology framework aims to integrate multiple theoretical perspectives (biological, genetic, developmental, psychodynamic, behavioral, family systems, and ecological).

• #62 SELECTIVE MUTISM: A Review of Etiology, Comorbidities, and Treatment – Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience

  https://innovationscns.com/selective-mutism-a-review-of-etiology-comorbidities-and-treatment/

  Selective mutism is a rare and multidimensional childhood disorder that typically affects children entering school age. It is characterized by the persistent failure to speak in select social settings despite possessing the ability to speak and speak comfortably in more familiar settings. Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. […] Many theories attempt to explain the etiology of selective mutism. Etiological perspectives are based in psychodynamic theory, behavioral theory, associations with social phobia and social anxiety, the family systems perspective, dissociative identity disorder, and the response to trauma. Most recently, the developmental psychopathology framework aims to integrate multiple theoretical perspectives (biological, genetic, developmental, psychodynamic, behavioral, family systems, and ecological).

• #63 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  The development of selective mutism is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, temperamental, environmental, and familial factors, with familial history of anxiety disorders and social influences playing a significant role. Cohan et al. (2006) highlight that the causes of selective mutism are complex and multifaceted, involving a combination of genetic, temperamental, environmental, and familial factors. Many children with selective mutism have a family history of anxiety disorders, indicating a possible genetic predisposition. These children may also display characteristics of social anxiety, extreme shyness, or introversion. The presence of a family history of anxiety disorders suggests a genetic component, which may predispose children to anxiety-related conditions. Environmental factors, such as overprotective parenting or a lack of exposure to social interactions at an early age, can also contribute to the development of selective mutism.

• #64 Selective Mutism As It Develops Over Time: A General Overview | OxJournal

  https://www.oxjournal.org/selective-mutism-as-it-develops-over-time-a-general-overview/

  Selective mutism is hard to attribute purely to experience or purely to genetics, as both play a part. Selective mutism often has some sort of lifestyle and behavioural origin, but a patient could also have a genetic predisposition that causes them to be more susceptible to developing selective mutism. […] Selective mutism could also be difficult to diagnose as it is often experienced in tandem with other diagnoses, including social anxiety disorder and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Other speech impairments may also affect selective mutism and though anxiety is a prominent feature of selective mutism, other aspects of the disorder may imply greater similarity to ASD (Muris 2021). Specifically, the learning and social impairments that may occur due to communicative difficulties is characteristic of both selective mutism and ASD (Astendig, 1999). Typically, however, selective mutism is classified as an anxiety-based disorder, marking the inability to speak as a physical manifestation of the anxiety.

• #65 Long-term outcomes of selective mutism: a systematic literature review | BMC Psychiatry | Full Text

  https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-023-05279-6

  Selective mutism (SM) is a childhood onset anxiety disorder, and the main symptom is not speaking in certain social situations. […] The etiology of SM is still somewhat unknown, but it is likely that it comprises genetic, environmental and neurodevelopmental factors. […] SM often occurs together with other psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. […] Other anxiety disorders are commonly comorbid with SM. […] The current understanding is that SM symptoms persist throughout life to some extent, but most people with childhood SM do not fulfil the diagnostic criteria by the time they reach late adolescence or adulthood. […] The findings of this review could imply that late discovery or late treatment onset could predict a more persistent course of symptoms, but further studies are needed to examine this association.

• #66 Long-term outcomes of selective mutism: a systematic literature review | BMC Psychiatry | Full Text

  https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-023-05279-6

  Selective mutism (SM) is a childhood onset anxiety disorder, and the main symptom is not speaking in certain social situations. […] The etiology of SM is still somewhat unknown, but it is likely that it comprises genetic, environmental and neurodevelopmental factors. […] SM often occurs together with other psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. […] Other anxiety disorders are commonly comorbid with SM. […] The current understanding is that SM symptoms persist throughout life to some extent, but most people with childhood SM do not fulfil the diagnostic criteria by the time they reach late adolescence or adulthood. […] The findings of this review could imply that late discovery or late treatment onset could predict a more persistent course of symptoms, but further studies are needed to examine this association.

• #67 Selective Mutism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

  https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/diseases/selective-mutism/

  Selective mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak in specific social situations despite being able to speak comfortably in others. […] The exact cause of selective mutism is not fully understood. However, several factors may contribute to its development: Genetic Predisposition: Children with a family history of anxiety disorders are more prone to developing SM. Environmental Factors: Stressful or traumatic events can trigger selective mutism in predisposed individuals. Temperamental Factors: Children who are naturally more inhibited and shy may be more susceptible to SM. Developmental Delays: Children with speech or language disorders may develop SM as a secondary issue. […] It’s essential to differentiate selective mutism from other conditions that may present similar symptoms, such as: Social Anxiety Disorder: While SM is a form of social anxiety, not all children with social anxiety develop SM. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Children with autism may also exhibit difficulties with speech, but their challenges are often broader and include issues with social interaction and repetitive behaviors. Speech and Language Disorders: These disorders should be ruled out as the primary cause of the child’s mutism. […] There is no definitive prevention, but early intervention with therapy can improve communication skills and reduce anxiety.

Zobacz więcej