Selective mutism is also known as what?

Selective mutism is commonly referred to as elective mutism. This term reflects the nature of the condition, where an individual chooses not to speak in certain social settings despite having the ability to speak in other situations, such as at home or with familiar people. The term "elective" highlights that the mutism occurs selectively in specific circumstances, which can often be linked to anxiety and discomfort in social interactions.

The condition typically manifests in children who, despite being capable of verbal communication, refrain from speaking in specific environments like school or public spaces, impacting their ability to engage socially. Understanding selective mutism as elective mutism emphasizes the behavioral aspects of the condition rather than it being purely involuntary. This distinction is important for diagnosis and treatment approaches in speech therapy and psychological support.