Joe is a young child who is capable of speaking but displays no desire to do so.This is referred to as:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct term for a young child who is capable of speaking but chooses not to do so is elective mutism. Discretionary mutism and discretionary aphonia are not commonly used terms, and elective aphonia refers specifically to the intentional loss or absence of voice due to psychological factors, rather than a choice not to speak.

Joe Is a Young Child Who Is Capable of Speaking