Do you know a child who doesn't speak or barely whispers in certain
settings but speaks openly at home?
This child may have a childhood anxiety condition called selective
mutism (SM.) The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-IV), published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA),
outlines the following criteria for diagnosing SM:
Child does not speak in certain places such as school or other social
events.
But, can speak normally in other settings such as in his/her home or
in places where he/she is comfortable and relaxed.
Child's inability to speak interferes with ability to function in
educational and/or social settings.
Mutism has persisted for at least one month.
Mutism is not part of a communication disorder and is not due to�
other conditions such as autistic spectrum disorders (e.g., autism,
Asperger's syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder), schizophrenia
or psychosis
SM can be an emotional roller coaster for parents, educators, treating
professionals, children and teens. There are good days and bad,
sometimes progress is fast and other times it is very slow. It is
difficult to know what strategies work best from day to day. However,
with proper treatment the ups and downs can be minimized.
The Selective Mutism Group-Childhood Anxiety Network (SMG-CAN) is the
largest nonprofit who network for parents and professionals dealing
with SM. Each year SMG-CAN sponsors a summer conference where you can
learn about proven strategies from the nation's top experts on SM,
find support and discover practical and hands-on tips on treating SM.
The SMG-CAN Sixth Annual Summer Conference will be held July 12-14 in
St. Louis, MO. The conference is two days of expert speakers on SM
topics including Understanding Selective Mutism, Family Dynamics,
Finding a Therapist, The OT and SLP role in the treatment of SM,
Embracing Your Child with SM, Sensory Integration and SM and many
others. Kids' Camp and Teen Scene are provided for children and teens
while parents or family members attend the sessions. Watch the
attached PBS spot, now showing on PBS Channel 9 in St. Louis, MO. For
more information about SM or the summer conference, check out our
website at www.selectivemutism.org.