mutism

n. lack or absence of speaking due to physical or psychogenic factors. The condition may result from a structural defect in the organs necessary for speech, congenital or early deafness in which an individual’s failure to hear spoken words inhibits the development of speech, neurological damage or disorder, psychological disorders (e.g., conversion disorder, catatonic schizophrenia), or severe emotional disturbance (e.g., extreme anger). The condition may also be voluntary, as in monastic vows of silence or the decision to speak only to selected individuals. See also akinetic mutism; alalia; selective mutism; stupor.

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Psychology term of the day

January 20th 2025

ambient conditions

the physical variables in a particular environment (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, noise level, and intensity of light) that, taken as a whole, create an atmosphere that may evoke a distinct feeling or mood. Ambient conditions can be distinguished from specific elements of the environment.