I didn't watch the documentary nor did I read your previous AMA (both things will be done, though), but I'm curious as to how psychologists diagnose selective mutism. I am a teacher, and I have plenty of students who apparently choose not to speak when asked and simply nod/shake their heads (and I am definitely not the most intimidating guy when in the classroom), but how do you differentiate, particulary at an early age, when it's selective mutism, when it's shyness and when it's just the way kids behave?
When you are in a situation in which you find yourself unable to speak, does it cause you any level of anxiety? It's obviously something you can't control, so, is it like being tied and unable to move? worse? not so bad? Will/Does it help if you write things?
This is most interesting, as it's the first time I've actually read about someone with this condition, rather than the stereotypes on TV. Thanks a lot, and stay strong.
cream_of_the_crap73 karma
I didn't watch the documentary nor did I read your previous AMA (both things will be done, though), but I'm curious as to how psychologists diagnose selective mutism. I am a teacher, and I have plenty of students who apparently choose not to speak when asked and simply nod/shake their heads (and I am definitely not the most intimidating guy when in the classroom), but how do you differentiate, particulary at an early age, when it's selective mutism, when it's shyness and when it's just the way kids behave?
When you are in a situation in which you find yourself unable to speak, does it cause you any level of anxiety? It's obviously something you can't control, so, is it like being tied and unable to move? worse? not so bad? Will/Does it help if you write things?
This is most interesting, as it's the first time I've actually read about someone with this condition, rather than the stereotypes on TV. Thanks a lot, and stay strong.
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