Can Aspergers cause selective mutism?
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Can Aspergers cause selective mutism?
Selective Mutism Young children with Asperger’s may demonstrate selective mutism as a symptom. This occurs when they will only speak freely with people they are comfortable with, and may not speak at all to strangers. Extreme cases last for years.
What is the difference between Aspergers and selective mutism?
Kids with Asperger’s are also often very resistant to changes in routine, and respond with tantrums or meltdowns whereas kids with selective mutism internalize their emotions, fears, and needs. The real defining factor is the presence or absence of social aptitude and emotional reciprocity.
Is selective mutism part of the autism spectrum?
Some professionals falsely view selective mutism as a form of autism or a learning disability. Children with learning disabilities or autism may demonstrate symptoms of the disorder, but selective mutism is not commensurate to an autism or learning disability diagnosis.
How is selective mutism treated in adults?
Among the most effective methods of treating symptoms of selective mutism is CBT. This action-based and problem-solving talking therapy is carried out by highly trained therapists, where you or your older child can benefit from further understanding of the disorder and anxiety in general.
How can adults overcome selective mutism?
Can selective mutism be developed later in life?
While selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder often associated with young children, teens and adults can also suffer from SM. In many cases, teens with SM have been struggling with anxiety for years.
What does selective mutism look like in adults?
A child or adult with selective mutism does not refuse or choose not to speak at certain times, they’re literally unable to speak. The expectation to talk to certain people triggers a freeze response with feelings of panic, like a bad case of stage fright, and talking is impossible.
How do you know if an adults has Asperger’s syndrome?
There is currently no specific test or diagnostic criteria for diagnosing Asperger’s syndrome in adults. Some people may wish to take a self-assessment test for adults. Although this is not a diagnosis, it may provide important insights that a person can discuss with their doctor.
How do adults get rid of selective mutism?
Can selective mutism start in adulthood?
Most studies suggest that selective mutism affects less than 1% of children. Sometimes, selective mutism persists into adulthood. The condition appears to occur more often in females than in males, although the reasons for this are not clear.
How do adults deal with selective mutism?
In order to reach this stage, therapies used in the treatment of selective mutism in both children and adults include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Desensitisation.
- Shaping.
- Positive reinforcement.
- Family therapy.
- Medication for selective mutism.
Can trauma cause selective mutism in adults?
While it might seem like a person with psychogenic mutism is simply refusing to speak, they actually feel physically unable to speak, and forcing the person to speak is unlikely to work. Some of the causes of psychogenic mutism may be general anxiety or past trauma.
