Vicedo (The Nature and Nurture of Love), a philosopher and historian, chronicles the varying perspectives of psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychoanalysts studying autism from the 1940s through the 1980s. The narrative offers a close examination of the experiences of a mother, Clara Park, and her autistic daughter Jessica. Vicedo tells their story in the context of the historical, competing, and complex views people have held about what it means to be on the autism spectrum and how it should be treated. Readers learn how scientists have struggled to understand the origin of autism and how to treat it; how families that include a person with autism have searched for help for their loved one; and how people on the spectrum have looked for ways to fit into a world that is made for neurotypical people. By focusing on the Parks’ experiences, the importance of studying history and the changes in understanding of mothering and disability are intimately revealed. VERDICT A compassionate history and personal account of a mother and her daughter that illustrates the sometimes complicated and distressing experiences shared by some autistic people and their families, and shows readers how far our understanding and awareness of autism has come over the years.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?