Ruth Perednik discusses effective treatment methods for selective mutism (SM). She describes the characteristics of children with SM and their families, as well as the treatment method she developed over twenty years of specialization. SM is a rare disorder, recognized in DSM-IV. It afflicts mostly children, but some of those suffering from SM do not get better as they become adults. It is sometimes confused with ADHD; children suffering from SM are frequently moody, prone to sleep problems, desire routine, and are often perceived by others as rude, probably because they seem to be able to be able to speak when they wish to. Many are above average in intelligence, creative, and sensitive to others thoughts and feelings.