ABSTRACT
Selective mutism (SM) is a specific phobia of speaking that tends to arise in sensitive children, who find it hard to take life events in their stride. Because speaking is so central to our social functioning, if it persists beyond childhood, it is associated with elevated risks for a range of serious psychosocial issues.
The Solution Focused approach emphasises language and interactive dialogue as central to the change process, and this raises questions about its usefulness in tackling a phobia of speaking. However, in this chapter the author highlights ways in which the Solution Focused approach is actually a very good fit for many aspects of the work in tackling SM, particularly when working with the wider team around the child or young person. The author also outlines how the approach can be used directly with individuals with this need, once certain safeguards and accommodations are in place.
