Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Quality Of Peer Relationships Among Children With Selective Mutism, Marielle Leo, Rachele Diliberto, Christopher A. Kearney

McNair Poster Presentations

The current study examined the quality of peer relationships among children with selective mutism. Previous research suggests that children who are selectively mute have difficulty making friends and have poor outcomes in treatment. Participants were derived from the UNLV Child School Refusal and Anxiety Disorders Clinic. An initial assessment was conducted by the Clinic therapist. The study utilized a demographic form, the Child Behavior Checklist, and the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule—Parent Version. The current study found that children who are selectively mute ranged in the quality of friendships, and this knowledge may be used to help treatment outcome.