Does anyone know the name of this mental illness?

Question

Im not even sure if this is an illness but what would it be called: Pretty much a young child of about (5-10) cannot talk. Well, he has the capacity to talk but he choses not to. Does this have a name?

Answer 1

If the child is developing normally and is meeting most expected milestones for his age, it's highly unlikely that it's autism.

If the child won't talk in certain situations or places (for example, at school) but will in others (like when he's at home or something), chances are, it's selective mutism. People with this generally have a fear of speaking and a fear of places where they might have to talk.

Selective mutism is considered a mental illness, specifically an anxiety disorder. It's important that the child be brought to a psychiatrist or psychologist to get an expert answer on whether he has it or not, and to begin some form of therapy to help him get over it. If not treated, it can lead into other, more serious problems.

Answer 2

Possibly Autism but it could just be selective mutism, has anything happend that has scared him? Because that can cause young children to chose to stop talking.

Answer 3

It sounds like Autism, or perhaps a form of clinical depression. I would suggest that you take the child to the doctors for a correct diagnosis.

Answer 4

. It is called selective mutism. It can be caused by trauma, anxiety, or even excessive shyness.

Answer 5

extreme withdrawal. usually due to some type of abuse. i had a friend who was like that in elementary, she doesn't like to call it abuse because they were doing their best, but the stories sounded like abuse. there's something bothering her and she needs help. be kind and considerate towards her, don't blame her.

Answer 6

could be a form of autism.