What is it about?
Frances Tustin dominated child psychoanalysis and the treatment of autism in the 1950s. Despite major evidence-based developments in the treatment of autism since that time, Tustin garnered a loyal troupe of acolytes who continue to propagate her theory. This article explains why these practices should stop.
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Why is it important?
Psychology and psychiatry are notorious for proposing faulty theories, diagnoses, and treatments for psychological and psychiatric disorders. Continuing to practice without evidence is tantamount to medical malpractice which deprives individuals of more effective treatments. Frances Tustin's theory and treatment of childhood autism is an exemplar of such practices. This paper tells you why.
Perspectives
I continue to be dismayed by the ready uptake of quackery in medicine, psychology, and psychiatry. Parents are vulnerable clients because they want the best for their children and will pay large sums of money to give them a chance at a normal life. We need critical, analytical voices to speak up against these unethical practitioners. This paper attempts to do just that in the field of childhood autism.
Dianna Kenny
University of Sydney
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Faulty Theory, Failed Therapy: Frances Tustin, Infant and Child Psychoanalysis, and the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, SAGE Open, January 2019, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/2158244019832686.
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