selective mutism

American  

[si-lek-tiv myoo-tiz-uhm] / sɪˈlɛk tɪv ˈmju 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

"We are also developing resources aimed at parents and teaching staff to provide universal and targeted support for children with selective mutism."

From BBC • Oct. 27, 2024

The NHS says that a child or adult with selective mutism "does not refuse or choose not to speak at certain times, they're literally unable to speak".

From BBC • Oct. 27, 2024

Jurors have been told boy Y has "gradually stopped speaking" to anyone apart from his mother following his arrest and had been diagnosed with selective mutism, as well as autism spectrum disorder.

From BBC • Dec. 13, 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