To learn more about Selective Mutism (SM), which is a relatively low incidence disorder, I read a journal article called Multiple informants’ report of emotional and behavioural problems in a nation-wide sample of selective mute children and controls by H. Kristensen. In the study, children ages 4-16 with and without SM were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist, the Teacher Report Form, and the Youth Self Report. This article found that many children with SM have internalizing and externalizing problems, but that children with SM differ mostly from their non SM counterparts in terms of the withdrawn scale. This proves that SM is an expression of severe social anxiety. Children with SM can appear withdrawn, sullen, depressed, fearful, anxious, and/or be very easily startled. It is believed that most children with SM experienced an event that was viewed as traumatic by them, causing a great deal of anxiety and/or embarrassment. These “traumatic” events can be as subtle as being laughed at when speaking or not liking the sound of one’s voice. Children with SM have been found to: have low self esteem, lack confidence, and have difficulty socializing in situations outside of the home. However, SM has not been linked to other behavior issues and having SM has not been shown to lead to the development of other behavioral problems/disorders.  

To get a parents perspective on SM I also read the article The Children Who Choose to Stay Silent. In the article parents discuss what it is like to have a child with SM. One parent describes having a normal, talkative, even outgoing, child at home but one who transforms into an anxious and silent student within feet of her school. Zoe, the mother of a young girl with SM, said: “How can anyone so young feel that much fear? I’ve been told she will talk in her own time and I have to be patient, but it’s so hard to watch, especially when you know how different your child can be at home. It just breaks my heart for her.” I can only imagine how sad and frustrating that must be as a parent. To know your child can be open and social, but not know how to help him/her overcome their fear of certain situations must be really hard. As an SLP, I will need to remember how important is is to address family's needs as well as my patients, as it is obvious that disorders/disabilities impact the entire family. The article can be found at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2124284/The-children-choose-stay-silent-The-sad-surprisingly-common-plight-youngsters-selective-mutism.html#ixzz1r5NjoAmbhttp://