Common
Refrigerator mother theory
Discredited historical theory about the cause of autism spectrum disorders
Refrigerator mother theory
The refrigerator mother theory, also known as Bettelheim's theory of autism, is a discredited psychological theory that the cause of autism is a lack of parental, and in particular, maternal emotional warmth. Evidence against the refrigerator mother theory began in the late 1970s, with twin studies suggesting a genetic etiology, as well as non-social environmental factors. Modern research generally agrees that there is a largely epigenetic etiology of autism spectrum disorders. The terms refrigerator mother and refrigerator parents were coined around 1950 as a label for mothers or fathers of children diagnosed with autism or schizophrenia. Both terms are now regarded as stigmatizing and no longer used.
Open boosters, collect cards and trade them. Free to play.
Play for free