School-Based Assessment and Intervention in Selective Mutism: A Narrative Review and Practical Framework
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s consistent failure to speak in specific social situations, most commonly at school, despite preserved speech in safe contexts such as home. It often becomes more apparent around school entry and may negatively affect academic participation, peer relationships, and family functioning. This review aims to present a clinically applicable and structured practical framework for the assessment and intervention of selective mutism in the school context. The article was prepared as a current narrative review and does not claim to be a systematic review. Within this scope, the definition, clinical significance, differential diagnosis, assessment tools, intervention components, and the role of family-school-clinic collaboration in the treatment process are discussed in light of the current literature. Available literature suggests that the most frequently reported and comparatively better-supported intervention components include hierarchical exposure, stimulus fading, shaping, and reinforcement strategies targeting speaking behaviour. Cognitive behavioural protocols aim to systematically reduce avoidance through low-pressure communication principles, home-school coordination, and small, measurable communication goals. For assessment and follow-up, parent and teacher reports should be interpreted together with behavioural indicators of speaking. In conclusion, effective care requires a structured programme that reduces avoidance through school, family, and clinical collaboration rather than forcing the child to speak. This review provides a practical framework for school teams and clinicians, including an implementable protocol, follow-up indicators, and common pitfalls.
DOI: 10.18863/pgy.1891044
Author: Büşra Büyükateş Çelebi
Institution: Necmettin Erbakan University
Language: Turkish
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7225008393