selective mutism

American  

[si-lek-tiv myoo-tiz-uhm] / sɪˈlɛk tɪv ˈmyu tɪz əm /

noun

Psychiatry.

1. an anxiety disorder characterized by the inability to speak in certain social environments, most commonly occurring in young children, especially in school.

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Etymology

Origin of selective mutism

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

Scarlett was diagnosed with selective mutism at the age of eight, although her parents, Steve and Emma, believe she started showing signs as young as five.

From BBC • Oct. 27, 2024

I want to wear the lanyard around my neck that says I have selective mutism and for people to understand what that is, like they would with autism.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2024

He told jurors the boy had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and selective mutism, and gradually stopped speaking after his arrest, giving evidence by typing on a keyboard and speaking through an intermediary.

From BBC • Dec. 19, 2023

I was diagnosed with severe anxiety and selective mutism at the age of 5.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 5, 2023

Ox-tail soup brings Tita out of her selective mutism.

From Salon • Jul. 4, 2022