Abstract
Selective Mutism (SM) is a rare condition which is even rarer in collectivistic
cultures. Firstly, SM is most often mistaken/misdiagnosed as autism spectrum
disorder (ASD) and other related conditions due to lack of awareness of SM and
the presence of mimicking characteristics of autistic behaviors in SM. Secondly,
submissive behaviors in collectivistic societies further veil this rare condition by
considering SM rather desirable than a problem. Especially in situations where
developmental delay is a comorbid condition it became a great challenge to
correctly diagnose among related conditions. We had a twelve years old girl
with developmental delays who remained falsely diagnosed with ASD for five
years. We have highlighted the diagnostic issues in SM and other related
conditions especially ASD that might hinder the development of an appropriate
management plan. The study also emphasized the need to develop a
standardized assessment tool to diagnose SM considering cultural aspects into
account.
Syeda Namrah Mahmood, Ayesha Jabeen. (2018) SILENCE MISDIAGNOSED: MUTISM, AUTISM OR SUBMISSIVENESS? DIAGNOSTIC BIAS IN COLLECTIVISTIC CULTURE, KHYBER MEDICAL UNIVERSITY JOURNAL, Volume 10, Issue 3.
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