A Survey of Illinois Speech-Language Pathologists and School Psychologists Regarding Selective Mutism

A questionnaire was designed by the examiner to identify the views and knowledge of Illinois school psychologists and speech-language pathologists regarding selective mutism. Subjects consisted of 119 school psychologists and 106 speech-language pathologists, who completed the questionnaire. The results of the survey revealed that both Illinois school psychologists and speech-language pathologists viewed themselves as partially responsible for the assessment and treatment of selective mutism, however, both samples indicated low levels of comfort in their ability to successfully provide those services. Additionally, very few of the respondents in either group had received formal training in the area of selective mutism. Results were evaluated to determine if significant differences existed between the groups based on the examiner\u27s questions. Significant differences were not found between the groups in regards to professional responsibility, treatment options, differential diagnosis, or associated and observed characteristics. Opportunities for formal training are necessary for the members of both professions to increase their understanding of and confidence in working with children who have selective mutism