Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
05:03
Social Threat-Safety Test Uncovers Psychosocial Stress-Related Phenotypes
Published on: December 15, 2023
Suffering in silence: why a developmental psychopathology perspective on selective mutism is needed
Sharon L Cohan1, Joseph M Price, Murray B Stein
1Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA. scohan@ucsd.edu
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|August 15, 2006
Summary
Selective mutism (SM) is a childhood disorder where children don't speak in certain social settings. This study explores various genetic, temperamental, and environmental factors contributing to SM development.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Psychopathology
Background:
- Selective mutism (SM) is characterized by a child's consistent failure to speak in specific social situations, despite speaking normally in others.
- Understanding the etiology of SM is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To organize existing literature on the causes of selective mutism (SM) from a developmental psychopathology viewpoint.
- To explore multiple pathways contributing to the development of SM in children.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on selective mutism.
- Conceptualization of SM development through a developmental psychopathology framework.
- Focus on genetic, temperamental, psychological, and social/environmental systems.
Main Results:
- Proposes that SM arises from complex interactions between genetic predispositions (e.g., anxiety), temperamental factors, psychological traits, and social/environmental influences.
- Highlights specific examples, such as the interaction between genetic anxiety loading and communication disorders leading to SM.
Conclusions:
- Selective mutism is a complex disorder with multifactorial etiology.
- Future research should focus on longitudinal, twin/adoption, molecular genetic, and neuroimaging studies to validate the proposed pathways model.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:20Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
According to George Herbert Mead, as children progress beyond the game stage, they develop a more comprehensive understanding of societal rules and norms. This cognitive and social development enables them to internalize the expectations of the broader community, refining their ability to regulate behavior.Consistent participation in organized activities is crucial in helping children recognize that their actions are not isolated but contribute to a more significant, interconnected group effort.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:29Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder
The development of psychological disorders, which are characterized by deviant, maladaptive, and personally distressing behaviors, has been explored through several theoretical approaches.
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...