Anna (feral child)

Anna (feral child)

Anna was a feral child discovered in the United States in the 1930s. Her case is often cited in discussions of child development, socialization, and the effects of extreme isolation on human behavior.

Early Life

Anna was born in 1932 in Pennsylvania. Her mother was unmarried and lived with her father, who was reportedly ashamed of Anna's illegitimacy. As a result, Anna was kept in isolation for most of her early life. She was confined to a small room and received minimal human contact.

Discovery

Anna was discovered in 1938 at the age of six. At the time of her discovery, she was severely malnourished and unable to speak or walk properly. Her condition was a result of the extreme neglect and isolation she had experienced.

Rehabilitation

After her discovery, Anna was placed in a foster home where she received medical care and education. Over time, she showed some improvement in her physical and cognitive abilities. However, her progress was limited due to the critical period of development she had missed during her early years.

Significance

Anna's case is significant in the study of feral children and the importance of early childhood socialization. It highlights the critical role of human interaction in the development of language, social skills, and cognitive abilities.

Related Cases

Anna's case is often compared to other cases of feral children, such as Genie (feral child) and Victor of Aveyron. These cases provide valuable insights into the effects of social isolation and the potential for rehabilitation.

Related pages

• Feral child
• Socialization
• Child development
• Critical period hypothesis