The Dark History of Autism in Mental Institutions: A Look into Past Misunderstandings and Current Advances

Throughout history, those diagnosed with autism have often been misunderstood and mistreated. This article explores the past tale of how individuals with autism were frequently wrongly placed in mental institutions, plagued by a lack of knowledge and proper care. We will also examine why and how attitudes have changed, and highlight the current advancements in understanding and supporting autistic individuals.

Ignorance and Misunderstanding

The historical treatment of autistic individuals in mental institutions has been shaped by profound ignorance and misunderstanding, especially in the past few decades. Even during the 1980s, most doctors were still unfamiliar with autism as a spectrum disorder, leading to a lack of appropriate interventions and therapeutic methods (DSM III, 1980; DSM IV, 1994).

Early Misdiagnoses and Debates

A crucial point to note is that even as recently as the 1980s, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) was still debating whether autism was a spectrum disorder. This was just over a decade after its third edition recognized that autism was not a form of childhood schizophrenia, which was once commonly believed (DSM III, 1980).

The Lack of Early Intervention

The lack of early intervention therapy during this period was another significant issue. For instance, even in 1986, the concept of early intervention therapy was not widespread, and many parents of newly diagnosed autistic children were unaware of these resources. My own fortunate inclusion in an early intervention research project at UC San Diego following my diagnosis in 1988 stands as a rare exception (Hatch, 1986).

Reasons for Incorrect Placement

Several factors contributed to the placement of autistic individuals in mental institutions, ranging from genuine concerns to societal pressures. Some families, especially those from wealthier backgrounds with reputations to maintain, felt that autistic individuals were burdens and needed to be hidden from public view. In other cases, the lack of knowledge and understanding about autism led to misguided beliefs that these individuals needed institutional care.

Bring Yourself Up to Date

Conditions have improved in the mental healthcare system since the 1980s, but there is still room for improvement. Current standards are far better than in the past, with advancements in early intervention therapy and more recognition of autism as a spectrum disorder (DSM IV, 1994; ADI-R, 1989).

Current Improvements and Understanding

Even today, the concept of mental health can be misunderstood, and an individual can be confined to a mental institution based on mere assumptions by concerned parties. However, with the increasing awareness of autism, understanding, and therapeutic interventions, the chances of an autistic individual being unnecessarily placed in a mental institution have significantly reduced (Hatch, 1986).

Conclusion

The treatment of individuals with autism has a long and complex history. From the ignorance and misunderstandings of the past to the ongoing advancements in recognition, intervention, and support, our understanding of autism has come a long way. It is essential to continue striving for better care and treatment for those on the autism spectrum, ensuring that they are seen as valuable members of society, and not just as burdens or challenges.

References

ADIR, Autism Diagnostic Interview—Revised. (1989). New York: Psychological Corporation.

DSM III, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition. (1980). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.

DSM IV, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. (1994). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.

Hatch, S. (1986). Early Intervention for Autism. Psychological Bulletin, 100(1), 128-138.