Children with autism spectrum disorders and selective mutism

Abstract

Background

It has been suggested that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might be a “comorbid” condition in selective mutism (SM).

Methods

In this retrospective study, we examined medical records of children with SM diagnosis (n=97) at a medical center specializing in assessment of ASD.

Results

Mean age for onset of SM symptoms was 4.5 years and mean age at SM diagnosis was 8.8 years. SM was more common among girls (boy:girl ratio=2.7:1). We found that 63% of the study group had an ASD (no gender difference). The SM group with combined ASD had later onset of symptoms, higher age at diagnosis, more often a history of speech delay, and a higher proportion of borderline IQ or intellectual disability.

Conclusion

The results highlight the risk of overlap between ASD and SM.

Keywords:

• selective mutism
• autism spectrum disorders
• Asperger syndrome
• autistic disorder

View correction statement:

Children with autism spectrum disorders and selective mutism [Corrigendum]

Disclosure

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.