has anyone out there ever heard of "Selective Mute-ism"?

It seems to be an anxiety disorder where a person will not speak in public. Usually seen in school for the first time, it doesn't seem to happen at home often. It can be frustrating in school, and most teachers don't understand Selective Mutism. Worse, some parents try punishment, as do some ignorant teachers.

Some success is seen with anti-anxiety medication, but it needs to be started in elementary school; the longer is goes on, the harder it is to change. In school, check with the school psychologist; they have (or can find) information to help

Yes

Yes, generally due to some trauma, usually early in life.

Yep. Choosing to be quiet usually due to a childhood trauma. Must be sad. :/

Yip

watch the big bang theroy :)