Selective mutism is a disorder in which a person is unable to speak in certain social situations, such as school or work, even though they are able to speak in other situations. It is most common in children, but can also affect adults. People with selective mutism may be able to speak to close family members or friends, but not to strangers or in unfamiliar settings.

The primary symptom of selective mutism is the inability to speak in certain social situations, such as at school or in public, despite being able to speak in other settings. Other symptoms may include:

• Avoiding eye contact

• Refusing to answer questions
• Appearing anxious or tense in social situations
• Not responding to verbal cues
• Not initiating conversations
• Not participating in group activities
• Having difficulty making friends
• Having difficulty expressing emotions
• Having difficulty understanding social cues
• Having difficulty understanding verbal instructions

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder
2. Traumatic Brain Injury
3. Developmental Disorders
4. Anxiety Disorders
5. Social Phobia
6. Hearing Impairment
7. Intellectual Disability
8. Communication Disorders
9. Sensory Processing Disorders
10. Emotional Disturbance

1. Speech and Language Therapy: Speech and language therapy can help a person with selective mutism to learn to communicate more effectively. The therapist will work with the person to help them become more comfortable speaking in certain situations.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can help a person with selective mutism to become more comfortable speaking in certain situations.

3. Social Skills Training: Social skills training can help a person with selective mutism to learn how to interact with others in a more effective way.

4. Medication: Medication may be prescribed to help reduce anxiety and improve communication skills.

5. Family Therapy: Family therapy can help family members to better understand and support the person with selective mutism.

The risk factors for Mutism, Selective include:

1. Anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.

2. Developmental delays, such as language delays or learning disabilities.

3. Family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders.

4. Traumatic experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse.

5. Exposure to a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster or a terrorist attack.

6. Exposure to a stressful environment, such as a chaotic home or school.

7. Exposure to a language other than the primary language spoken in the home.

8. Exposure to a culture other than the primary culture in the home.

9. Exposure to a new environment, such as a new school or a new home.

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There is no cure for selective mutism, but there are treatments available that can help. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and family therapy. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants may be prescribed to help reduce anxiety and improve communication. Behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and social skills training can also be used to help a person with selective mutism learn to communicate more effectively.