The Harm of the 'Refrigerator Mothers' Metaphor

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This chapter explores the introduction of the metaphor of 'refrigerator mothers' in relation to autism, the harm it caused, and its influence on the relationship between scientists and parents. It discusses the prevailing belief that mothers were to blame for their children's autism and how this blame affected the support parents received. The chapter also highlights the gender biases and misogyny that influenced this perspective.

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.