'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
All In The Mind
On All in the Mind this week, the early history of autism. With historian of science Professor Marga Vicedo we learn about the blame that was cast on mothers, the fight to get adequate help and support for families, and the movement that one mother, Clara Park, helped spark.
29:06•28 May 2022
The Untold Story of Autism: Mothers, Blame, and Change
“The main role that he played was in encouraging her to develop her own ideas, her own voice, and Clara Park, encouraged by this, eventually published her own book about raising Jessica.”
Ever wondered how autism was understood before it became a household term? This episode of 'All in the Mind' dives into the early history of autism with Professor Marga Vicedo. You'll hear about the harsh blame placed on mothers during the 1950s and 1960s, often labeled as 'refrigerator mothers'. These women were unfairly accused of causing their children's autism due to their supposed cold and distant parenting.
Historian of science, Professor Marga Vicedo, walks us through these misguided beliefs and the subsequent fight for proper support for families with autistic children. She highlights the pivotal role of Clara Park, a mother who sparked a movement for better understanding and resources. Park's personal story and her relationship with Marie Battle Singer are discussed, along with the impact of her book on raising her autistic daughter, Jessica.
The episode also touches on the additional hurdles faced by people with disabilities during the pandemic and stresses the importance of listening to autistic adults. It's a raw, engaging, and enlightening journey through a challenging chapter in autism history.
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