When confronted with a fearful scenario, the amygdala receives signals of potential danger (from the sympathetic nervous system) and begins to set off a series of reactions that will help individuals protect themselves. 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. Studies show that individuals with inhibited temperaments are more prone to anxiety than those without shy temperaments. 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.Ĭhildren with Selective Mutism often have severely inhibited temperaments. In other words, they have inherited a tendency to be anxious from one or more family members. The majority of children with Selective Mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. Why does a child develop Selective Mutism? When compared to the typically shy and timid child, most children with Selective Mutism are at the extreme end of the spectrum for timidity and shyness. Less severely affected children may look relaxed and carefree, and are able to socialize with one or a few children but are unable to speak and effectively communicate to teachers or most/all peers.
They may freeze, be expressionless, unemotional and may be socially isolated. Some children may stand motionless with fear as they are confronted with specific social settings. Some may be completely mute and unable to speak or communicate to anyone in a social setting, others may be able to speak to a select few or perhaps whisper. Not all children manifest their anxiety in the same way. Many children with Selective Mutism have great difficulty responding or initiating communication in a nonverbal manner therefore, social engagement may be compromised in many children when confronted by others or in an overwhelming setting where they sense a feeling of expectation. Children and adolescents with Selective Mutism have an actual FEAR of speaking and of social interactions where there is an expectation to speak and communicate. This disorder is quite debilitating and painful to the child.
More than 90% of children with Selective Mutism also have social phobia or social anxiety. These children are able to speak and communicate in settings where they are comfortable, secure, and relaxed. PH: (215) 887-5748 | E: Mutism is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. WHAT IS SELECTIVE MUTISM? Selective Mutism – A Comprehensive Overview