Selective Mutism and Self-Regulation

摘要

This paper explores selective mutism as a complex anxiety disorder best treated using a multi-modal approach. A case of a young girl is presented to illustrate how selective mutism may be an attempt to regulate anxiety and other emotions. The author demonstrates the use of multiple treatment approaches (e.g., behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, modern psychoanalytic) used in conjunction as a means to overcome the selective mutism and to develop the ability to self-regulate a variety emotions and behaviors.