OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents. METHOD: Five children (mean age 6.1 years) with a diagnosis of selective mutism were administered group therapy over an 8-week period. Parents simultaneously attended a second group, aimed at providing education and advice on managing selective mutism in everyday situations, and in the school environment. RESULTS: At post-treatment, all children increased their level of confident speaking in school, clinic and community settings. Parents indicated a reduction in their own anxiety levels, from pre- to post-treatment on self-rating scales. CONCLUSIONS: Findings support the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents. METHOD: Five children (mean age 6.1 years) with a diagnosis of selective mutism were administered group therapy over an 8-week period. Parents simultaneously attended a second group, aimed at providing education and advice on managing selective mutism in everyday situations, and in the school environment. RESULTS: At post-treatment, all children increased their level of confident speaking in school, clinic and community settings. Parents indicated a reduction in their own anxiety levels, from pre- to post-treatment on self-rating scales. CONCLUSIONS: Findings support the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents.
Authors: Danielle Cornacchio; Jami M Furr; Amanda L Sanchez; Natalie Hong; Leah K Feinberg; Rachel Tenenbaum; Cristina Del Busto; Laura J Bry; Bridget Poznanski; Elizabeth Miguel; Thomas H Ollendick; Steven M S Kurtz; Jonathan S Comer Journal: J Consult Clin Psychol Date: 2019-08