Which of the following best defines selective mutism?

Selective mutism is best defined as a complex childhood anxiety disorder regarding social communication. This condition typically manifests in children who are capable of verbal communication but are unable to speak in certain social situations, such as at school or with peers, even though they may speak freely in more comfortable settings, like at home with family.

The essence of selective mutism lies in the anxiety associated with speaking in specific contexts, rather than a complete inability to produce speech sounds or a result of cognitive impairment. Children who experience selective mutism are often aware of their ability to speak, which adds to the stress and anxiety of their situation.

Understanding that selective mutism is tied to anxiety highlights its distinction from other communication disorders, which might not involve the same psychological components. This reinforces the need for approaches in intervention that address both the communication aspects and the anxiety that underlies the disorder.