What's the treatment for mutism?
The diagnosis of mutism is fairly easy to make because the signs amd symptoms are clear-cut and easily observable. However, other social disorders effecting social speech, such as autism or schizophrenia, must be considered in the diagnosis.
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. |