The successful treatment of long-term selective mutism: a case study

This study describes the successful treatment of a seventh grade boy who ha d selective mutism in school since kindergarten. Treatment consisted of sys tematic desensitization, consultation with school personnel, and training i n social speaking skills. The student made significant gains with respect t o frequency of verbalizations to teachers and peers; number of individuals spoken to, anxiety related to speaking, school attendance, and involvement in school-based extracurricular activities. At one year follow-up, the stud ent's rate of speech was indistinguishable from his classmates'. Special is sues concerning the treatment of long-term selective mutism are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.