This chapter explores the blame placed on mothers for their children's autism diagnosis in the 1960s, discussing the concept of 'refrigerator mothers' and their perceived lack of maternal instincts. It also delves into the history of autism diagnosis and its initial association with schizophrenia.
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.