How do you discipline a child with selective mutism?
Dos and Don’ts for Parents of Children with Selective Mutism
- DO Understand That Selective Mutism Is Not a ‘Choice’
- DO Lay off the Questioning.
- DO Describe and Praise Their Behaviors.
- DO Give Your Child Time to Speak.
- DO Notice Your Own Reaction to Your Child’s Silence.
- DON’T Offer Rewards for Something Your Child Can’t Do.
Which therapeutic method of therapy works best for selective mutism?
Behavioral strategies and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are the most widely supported therapeutic treatments for selective mutism. Using a wide variety of strategies aimed at reducing the anxiety beneath the behavior, these therapeutic interventions help kids learn to gradually engage in more speaking behaviors.
How can you help selective mutism?
The main treatment for selective mutism is behaviour therapy. Behaviour therapy involves gradually exposing a child to increasingly difficult speaking tasks in the context of a supportive relationship. Practice begins with easier steps, and gets progressively harder – like climbing a ladder.
Is selective mutism caused by trauma?
and medical history. From the results of the initial interview, the professional will often see the child. Children with Selective Mutism may or may not speak to the diagnosing professional.
Is selective mutism neurological?
The neurological basis for selective mutism is thought to be a cascade of events in an area of the brain known as the amygdala, which receives danger signals from the environment. The anxiety from a situation perceived as dangerous to the child’s well-being causes a communication shutdown.
How does CBT help selective mutism?
Among the most effective methods of treating symptoms of selective mutism is CBT. This action-based and problem-solving talking therapy is carried out by highly trained therapists, where you or your older child can benefit from further understanding of the disorder and anxiety in general.
Should SLPs treat selective mutism?
SLPs are in an excellent position to coordinate intervention for children who have selective mutism because of their knowledge and skills in effective communication treatments (Schum, 2002).
How is selective mutism treated in adults?
In order to reach this stage, therapies used in the treatment of selective mutism in both children and adults include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Desensitisation.
- Shaping.
- Positive reinforcement.
- Family therapy.
- Medication for selective mutism.
Can adults suffer from selective mutism?
Selective mutism is a severe anxiety disorder that affects both children and adults. It is believed that one in 150* children are affected and it is more common in girls that in boys.
How does selective mutism affect the brain?
Brain Studies Studies show that children with selective mutism have a low threshold of excitability in a portion of their brain called the amygdala, which explains most of the behavioral issues these children exhibit. The amygdala senses potential danger by processing signals from the sympathetic nervous system.
Who should treat selective mutism?
A pediatrician, speech-language pathologist, and a psychologist may work together to diagnose and treat the condition. Your child might need a set of different types of treatment. With treatment, most children overcome selective mutism.
Who treats selective mutism?