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Selective mutism: how a successful speech and language assessment really is possible
1School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Sydney, East Street, Lidcombe, New South Wales 2141, Australia.
Summary
Assessing children with selective mutism can be challenging. A study found that four out of five children with selective mutism also had a communication disorder, highlighting the need for tailored speech and language assessments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Speech-Language Pathology
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Disorders
Background:
- Selective mutism presents significant challenges for speech and language assessment due to children's limited verbalizations in clinical settings.
- Traditional assessment methods may not accurately capture the communication abilities of children with selective mutism.
- Home-based assessments offer a more naturalistic environment for observing speech and language in these children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of communication disorders in children diagnosed with selective mutism.
- To describe a successful methodology for conducting speech and language assessments of children with selective mutism in their homes.
- To outline the specific communication disorders identified in the studied population.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted in Australia involving five children meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) criteria for selective mutism.
- Assessments were performed in the children's homes, where they typically exhibit more verbal behavior.
- Methods included audio-taping natural conversations with family members and administering standardized speech and language tests.
Main Results:
- Four out of the five participating children (80%) were found to have an underlying communication disorder.
- The study successfully demonstrated the feasibility of conducting comprehensive speech and language assessments in a home environment for children with selective mutism.
- Specific communication disorders identified varied among the participants, indicating diverse needs within this population.
Conclusions:
- Speech and language assessments conducted in the home environment are effective for children with selective mutism.
- A significant proportion of children with selective mutism may present with co-occurring communication disorders that require targeted intervention.
- This study provides a framework for improving diagnostic accuracy and intervention planning for children with selective mutism and associated communication difficulties.