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. 2025 Jul 14;15(7):947.
doi: 10.3390/bs15070947.

Exploring the Experiences and Current Support of Children and Young People with Selective Mutism Within Mainstream Secondary Schools

Sophie Walker  1 , Caroline Bond  1
Affiliations

Exploring the Experiences and Current Support of Children and Young People with Selective Mutism Within Mainstream Secondary Schools

Sophie Walker et al. Behav Sci (Basel). .

Abstract

Few studies have explored the views of children and young people (CYP) with selective mutism (SM), and even less is understood regarding their experiences in relation to the support that they receive within school. Across three case studies, direct interviews with CYP with SM attending mainstream secondary school were conducted non-verbally, aiming to explore their current experiences of school and support. Subsequent interviews were conducted with the CYP's key stakeholders, including parents/carers, school staff, and professionals with ongoing involvement. These interviews aimed to build on information shared by the CYP. Analysis highlighted the importance of individual experiences and support, relationships with peers and trusted adults, collaboration, communication across the setting, and importantly, a secure understanding of SM across the school setting. Clear implications for school professionals emerged. Future research should continue to work toward the exploration and development of knowledge and understanding of SM and gather the experiences of a wider range of CYP and families.

Keywords: children and young people’s experiences; progress; secondary school; selective mutism; support.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The funders had no role in the design of the study; in the collection, analyses, or interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript; or in the decision to publish the results.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Thematic map of Olivia’s reported school experiences.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Thematic map of parent, staff, and assistant psychologist interviews.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Thematic map of Catherine’s reported school experiences.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Thematic map of parent and staff interviews.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Thematic map of Michael’s reported school experiences.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Thematic map of parent and staff interview responses.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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