Susan Wiley's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Susan Wiley, also known as Genie, is one of the most famous feral children in history. She was found in 1970 in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 13, after spending most of her life in extreme isolation and abuse, locked in a small room by her father. Her tragic story and the groundbreaking research conducted on her have shed light on the critical period of language development and the effects of severe neglect on human development.

Born in 1957, Susan was the fourth child in her family. Her mother was blind and her father was the primary caregiver, but he was also a paranoid alcoholic who believed that Susan was mentally retarded. He isolated her from the rest of the family, confining her to a small room and restraining her in a crib or a potty chair for most of her life. She was deprived of basic human interaction and proper stimulation, causing severe developmental delays and emotional trauma.

When Susan was discovered, she weighed only 59 pounds and had limited motor and cognitive abilities. She could hardly speak, having missed the crucial period for language acquisition. Her movements were awkward and she lacked basic social skills and manners. She exhibited behaviors commonly associated with wild animals, such as clawing and spitting, and displayed extreme fear and anxiety in response to human contact.

After her rescue, Susan was placed under the care of scientists and psychologists who were eager to study her and help her overcome the effects of her early deprivation. She became known as Genie to protect her identity and allow her to have some semblance of a normal life. The case of Genie attracted widespread attention and interest from the academic and scientific communities, as it offered a rare opportunity to study the effects of extreme social isolation on human development.

Over the next several years, Genie became the subject of intense research and rehabilitation efforts. Scientists closely monitored her progress and tried to teach her language, social skills, and basic self-care. Despite her initial challenges, Genie made significant progress and showed remarkable resilience. She learned to communicate using a limited vocabulary and gradually developed a better understanding of the world around her.

However, Genie's progress was not without setbacks. She struggled with emotional and behavioral issues, including severe mood swings, self-harm, and difficulty forming meaningful relationships. Some researchers questioned the ethics of studying and publicizing Genie's case, as they feared that the intense scrutiny and pressure might further traumatize her. Despite these concerns, Genie's story continued to capture the public's imagination and fuel debates about the nature-nurture controversy and the limits of human resilience.

Throughout her life, Genie's case has provided valuable insights into the critical period for language acquisition and the profound impact of early deprivation on cognitive and emotional development. Her story has highlighted the importance of early intervention and support for children who have experienced severe neglect and abuse. It has also sparked ethical discussions about the potential benefits and harms of studying feral children and the responsibilities of researchers and caregivers in such cases.

Ultimately, Genie's life is a tragic yet compelling reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of care and support in overcoming adversity. Her story continues to inspire ongoing research and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the lives of children who have experienced extreme isolation and neglect. Despite the challenges she faced, Genie's journey has left an indelible mark on the fields of psychology, linguistics, and child development, and her legacy has contributed to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between nature and nurture in shaping human potential.