Inadequate socialisation : feral and isolated children Flashcards
What is inadequate socialisation?
When socialisation is incomplete or ineffective
Who are feral children?
‘wild’ children who have not been socialised
What does the research on feral children tell us about socialisation?
Primary socialisation is extremely important. It may be possible to forget this primary socialisation and so human interaction is important throughout life
Who are isolated children?
Where children have had some human contact, such as being kept in a house but fed and hearing some language
What are characteristics of most feral and isolated children?
- find it difficult to speak a language
- find it hard to adapt to normal food
- do not like wearing conventional clothing
- may prefer to walk on all fours and not upright
- may seem uninterested in people and may be unable to understand how others may see and react to them
What else does studying feral and isolated children show?
Humans are naturally social. Commuication and interaction with others is very important
Feral and isolated children find it difficult to fit into society. What can’t they do?
Interact, speak a language, learn to love
What is an example of a feral child?
Genie: discovered in California in 1970. Suffured extreme abuse and neglect. She was studied by many researchers. She was unable to stand up straight, chew food properly and focus on anything not close to her. She made good progress but continues to live in institutions.
