The Blame on Mothers: The Myth of Refrigerator Mothers

In the 1950s, Clara Park, a mother of three, realized her fourth child, Jessica, was different. Concerned about her daughter's behavior, Clara began taking detailed notes. But the prevailing attitude in the 1960s blamed mothers for autism, specifically 'refrigerator mothers' who were seen as cold and unmaternal. Bernard Rimmland's publication in 1964 shifted the focus to a biological basis for autism. Clara's book, 'The Siege,' challenged the blame on mothers and helped spark the autism activism movement. Clara's tireless advocacy allowed Jessica to attend school, hold a job, and become an accomplished painter. Clara's contribution deserves more recognition in the field.