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

See Examples For:

selective mutism

Richard Littler KC, representing Ratcliffe, had told the court the teenager had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and selective mutism.

From BBC ● Dec. 5, 2024

The NHS describes how selective mutism triggers a freeze response in certain social situations, with those affected experiencing anxiety and panic.

From BBC ● Mar. 17, 2024

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

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 5, 2023

Ms Boyle said the trauma of her upbringing had left her with selective mutism in her early childhood - an anxiety disorder that leaves someone unable to communicate in certain situations.

From BBC ● Apr. 26, 2023

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

From Salon ● Jul. 4, 2022