Selective Mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by an inability to speak in specific social situations (e.g., at school or with peers), despite being able to comfortably speak in other settings (e.g., at home).

Symptoms

• Increased anxiety in social settings with expectations to speak
• Avoidance of initiating or participating in conversations, as well as other activities that require speaking in social settings
• Reliance on non-verbal gestures (e.g., pointing, nodding) or having parents (or other caregivers) speak for them
• May engage in tantrum behaviors or irritability when expected to speak in public settings