Posts tagged avoidance cycle
Climbing Up the Exposure Ladder: Where to Start with SM Treatment and How to Keep Going
Climbing Up the Exposure Ladder: Where to Start with SM Treatment and How to Keep Going

A diagnosis of selective mutism can provide a lot of clarity for children and their parents, explaining why it is difficult for kids to speak in certain environments and how the cycle of anxiety and accommodation can cause symptoms to worsen. However, once it’s clear that the speech avoidance is not due to an extreme case of shyness or stubbornness, you may wonder what to do next. This article explains how to create an exposure ladder in order to support your child in taking incremental steps toward finding their brave voice.

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Selective Mutism, Selective Mutism ParentsJonece Layneselective mutism, avoidance cycle, exposure ladder
The Role of Family Accommodation in SM Treatment
The Role of Family Accommodation in SM Treatment

Immediate family members are usually the most comfortable speaking partners for children with selective mutism. In fact, many parents of kids with SM describe their children as outgoing, talkative, friendly, and even loud when they are at home. This makes it that much more difficult to watch these kids struggle to interact with extended family, friends, and community members. Often, family members will try to bridge the gap for their loved one in order to facilitate communication with other people. This article will discuss common behaviors and identify helpful practices for family members to employ to promote brave speech long term.

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Selective Mutism, Selective Mutism ParentsJonece Layneselective mutism, anxiety, avoidance cycle