Selective mutism – symptomatology and predisposing factors in children

Abstract

The paper discusses the issue of selective mutism, which is an anxiety disorder. Literature analysis shows that studies on selective mutism, i.e. an individual’s failure to speak in specific social situations, are missing, especially in Polish psychological and educational literature. The paper presents mainly data on the epidemiology and aetiology of selective mutism, emphasising the need to initiate therapy as soon as possible after the diagnosis. According to epidemiological data, the number of children with selective mutism is growing. This prevents educational success, and, above all, emotional and social development. Unfortunately, symptoms indicative of selective mutism are very often underestimated or confused with other developmental problems. It should be emphasised that early and accurate diagnosis is very important as selective mutism can give rise to social anxiety, depressive disorders and many other problems. The paper describes the diagnostic specifiers of selective mutism and the current trends in explaining some of the causes of the disorder, especially in the context of polyvagal theory and the concept of Bar-Haim and Henkin (with the focus placed on the aspects that are rarely cited in the literature). The disorders and difficulties usually associated with selective mutism are also mentioned. We expect that the paper will contribute to the reflection on the need to develop effective protocols to properly manage the disorder and eliminate its effects. Our literature review shows that empirical studies on the efficacy of selective mutism therapy in children and adolescents are still missing.