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Anxiety

Selective mutism

Persistent inability to speak in certain social situations (e.g. school) although speaking normally in others. It's a form of anxiety, not disobedience.

Common signs

Talks at home but not in classFreezes or stays stillCommunicates with gestures

Tips

For you

  1. Don't pressure them to speak
  2. Gradual steps with the school's support
  3. See a child psychologist

For family and friends

  1. Don't pressure or reward them for speaking in front of everyone
  2. Work with the school to take small steps

When to ask for help

  1. If it lasts more than a month at school
  2. If they stop talking at home too

Test for families

For parents or relatives: answer thinking about the child or person you are worried about, over the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. Talks normally at home
2. Doesn't talk at school or with strangers
3. Communicates by gesturing or pointing
4. Freezes when asked to speak
5. Has been like this for more than a month
6. It isn't because they don't know the language
7. Seems nervous in social situations
8. It affects them at school or with friends
Also take the full social anxiety test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guide: Childhood and youthFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Separation anxiety disorderAnxietySpecific phobiaAnxietySocial anxiety disorder (social phobia)AnxietyPanic disorderAnxiety

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.