A randomized controlled trial of a home and school‐based intervention for selective mutism – defocused communication and behavioural techniques

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Abstract
Background: Randomized controlled psychosocial treatment studies on selective mutism ( SM ) are lacking. Method: Overall, 24 children with SM , aged 3–9 years, were randomized to 3 months treatment ( n = 12) or wait list ( n = 12). Primary outcome measure was the School Speech Questionnaire. Results: A significant time by group interaction was found ( p = .029) with significantly increased speech in the treatment group ( p = .004) and no change in wait list controls ( p = .936). A time by age interaction favoured younger children ( p = .029). Clinical trail registration: Norwegian Research CouncilNCT01002196. Conclusions: The treatment significantly improved speech. Greater improvement in the younger age group highlights the importance of an early intervention.

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