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Australian Broadcasting Corporation
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
'Refrigerator mothers' and the history of autism
Saturday 28th May 2022
Join Professor Marga Vicedo on 'All in the Mind' as she explores the early history of autism and the blame cast on mothers.
29 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Raw
Engaging
Empowering
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ABC Radio
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Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Get the buttons here!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.