The Power of Play: Therapeutic Approaches for Selective Mutism Challenges

This case study employs play therapy as a therapeutic intervention to address selective mutism challenges in a 5-year-old female child. The study aims to comprehend the play behaviors exhibited by a child with selective mutism and assess the efficacy of play therapy in helping the child overcome this condition. Selective mutism, an anxiety disorder where a child refrains from speaking in specific social contexts, is the focus of this investigation. Play therapy serves as a medium for the child to express herself without the pressure to vocalize. The study comprises 48 play therapy sessions, utilizing structured interviews, observations, intelligence tests, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) completed by the child's mother for data collection. Findings reveal notable shifts in the child's play patterns, initially manifesting tension and fear through aggressive figurines but later transitioning into problem-solving and safety symbolization. Furthermore, play therapy demonstrates enhancements in emotional regulation, diminished anxiety levels, and improved social skills in the subject. In summary, play therapy emerges as an effective means to aid children with selective mutism in conquering anxiety and fostering their social aptitude. This research offers valuable insights into the significance of this therapeutic approach for supporting children with social communication disorders