Autism in the 20th Century: A Closer Look at Its Recognition and Treatment

The question of why autism was so much rarer in the early part of the 20th century compared to recent decades is a complex one. A common argument centers around increased awareness and diagnosis rates, but it's also crucial to examine the historical context in which autism was treated. In this article, we trace the journey of autism recognition and treatment, highlighting significant changes over the past 50 years, as observed in New Zealand.

Introduction to Autism

Autism, a neurological disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavior, has garnered increased attention over the past few decades. However, the roots of autism lie much deeper in history. My observations have led me to reflect on how our understanding and treatment of autistic individuals have evolved over time.

Historical Examples of Autistic Traits

It's fascinating to see how traits associated with autism have existed long before the term itself was coined. For instance, in my youth, I and a friend who is left-handed were probably part of the last generation to experience school's insistence on using the right hand for writing. Such practices were common, even though society has long recognized the value of left-handed individuals in sports. Unfortunately, this early form of discrimination was present in other areas too.

Many years ago, children with more severe autistic traits were often labeled as "difficult," "dumb," or "stupid." These terms are harsh and often miss the mark. For example, my mother used to call "read too much" a single Icelandic word, which referred to a relative who knew everything about ships. In the 1980s, these people might have been called "Rain Men," after the movie featuring Dustin Hoffman, but that still didn't fully capture their unique capabilities.

The stories from the past hold many tales of individuals with autism being tied up and left in barns or treated like animals. While people might not have been evil, such treatment was inhumane and reflected a lack of understanding. This stark contrast is both heartbreaking and enlightening, as it highlights how far we have come in treating autism with humanity and dignity.

Historical Prevalence and Recognition

Autism has always had its place within human history, though its official recognition as a specific condition is recent. Isaac Newton, one of the greatest scientists in history, was often described as having autistic traits. However, the term autism didn't exist back then, and these individuals were often labeled as eccentric, difficult, or even possessed.

The key difference now is that we have a better understanding of what autism is and how to provide appropriate treatment and support. It's not about selling vitamin pills; it's about recognizing signs, providing humane treatment, and giving individuals with autism the best chance to lead fulfilling lives. The number of autistic people in our civilization has not increased significantly; it's just that more of them are surviving and receiving the help they need.

Advancements in Diagnosis and Treatment

In the past, autism was largely unrecognized and misunderstood, leading to harsh treatment and isolation. Advances in medical and psychological understanding have resulted in more accurate diagnoses and humane treatments. It's no longer acceptable to lock autistic individuals in asylums or treat them like animals. Today, the focus is on providing support and understanding, allowing autistic individuals to thrive and contribute to society.

Conclusion

The journey of autism recognition and treatment is a testament to how far we've come in our understanding of human diversity. While the traits of autism have always been present, the treatment and recognition evolved dramatically in the 20th century. In New Zealand, and around the world, we now recognize the value and potential of individuals with autism, providing them with the support and understanding they need to live fulfilling lives.