Several cases of children who grew up in extreme social isolation, such as the case of Genie in 1970, suggest that most of our mental capacities, and perhaps even the ability to think, are learned through social interaction.
There have been a number of cases of feral children raised in social isolation with little or no human contact. Few have captured public and scientific attention like that of a young girl called Genie Wiley. She spent almost her entire childhood locked in a bedroom, isolated and abused for over a decade.
Genie's case was one of the first to put the critical period theory to the test. Could a child reared in utter deprivation and isolation develop language? Could a nurturing environment make up for a horrifying past?
This article discusses Genie's life, her treatment, and the impact that abuse and deprivation had on her language development. It also covers the ethical problems with her case.
Discovery and Study (1970-1975)
Genie's story came to light on November 4, 1970, in Los Angeles, California. A social worker discovered the 13-year old girl after her mother sought out services for her own health. The social worker soon discovered that the girl had been confined to a small room, and an investigation by authorities quickly revealed that the child had spent most of her life in this room, often tied to a potty chair.
Learn more about Genie's story here
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