“It’s the fact they’re no trouble to anybody. That’s the problem, isn’t it?”: An exploration of the characteristics of Selective Mutism and their applicability for the role of the Educational Psychologist.

Edwards, Kathryn 2022. “It’s the fact they’re no trouble to anybody. That’s the problem, isn’t it?”: An exploration of the characteristics of Selective Mutism and their applicability for the role of the Educational Psychologist. DEdPsy Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This thesis is divided into three sections: Part 1 is a detailed literature review which explores relevant research into the characteristics of Selective Mutism (SM), the co-morbid conditions of the diagnosis and how the condition is within the remit of Educational Psychologists (EPs). The review begins with a description of Selective Mutism (SM) including its history, prevalence, and aetiology. It then describes the characteristics noted in the literature. This is followed by the impact of SM, co-morbidity and misdiagnosis. Followed by the role of the EP in relation to the condition. Finally, the rationale for the current study is explained, with mention to the research questions. Part 2 is the empirical study, which explores the characteristics of SM and if awareness of these characteristics would be beneficial in helping EPs elicit testable hypotheses. A summary of the relevant literature is discussed, followed by details of the methodology and procedure for the study. Forty-six parental questionnaires were completed, which were analysed using descriptive statistics and three EPs took part in a virtual focus group, which was analysed using thematic analysis (TA). Tables showing the differences in mode scores for the parental questionnaires and main themes and sub-themes of the focus group are presented in the results section. With both findings merging within the discussion, in order to discuss findings in relation to the research questions, along with relevant literature and psychological theory. Finally, future research and limitations are discussed. Part 3 is the critical appraisal, which is a reflexive account of the studies contribution to knowledge and is a critical account of the research practitioner. This section discusses the development of: The research topic; rationale and research questions; the research paradigm; and the research design, whilst also discussing some obstacles that were encountered, the overall contribution to knowledge and practice and dissemination of the results.

Item Type:	Thesis (DEdPsy)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	20 September 2022
Last Modified:	21 Sep 2022 10:31
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/152721

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