Bernard Rimland

Bernard Rimland (November 15, 1928 – November 21, 2006) was an American research psychologist and advocate for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). He is best known for revolutionizing the understanding of autism in the United States and challenging the prevailing view of the time that autism was caused by cold, unloving "refrigerator mothers." Rimland's groundbreaking work led to a shift towards biological explanations for autism and the development of therapies aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with ASD.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Bernard Rimland was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to a family of Jewish immigrants. He showed an early interest in psychology and pursued his education in this field, earning a Bachelor's degree from San Diego State University and a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from Pennsylvania State University in 1953.

Career and Contributions[edit | edit source]

In 1964, Rimland published Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implications for a Neural Theory of Behavior, which challenged the dominant psychoanalytic theories of autism of the time. His book proposed that autism was a biological disorder, rooted in neurological abnormalities, rather than a result of parental emotional neglect. This work was instrumental in changing the course of autism research and treatment.

Rimland founded the Autism Society of America (ASA) in 1965, one of the first national organizations dedicated to increasing public awareness about autism and advocating for research and services for individuals with autism and their families. He also established the Autism Research Institute (ARI) in 1967, focusing on conducting and sponsoring research into the causes of and treatments for autism.

Throughout his career, Rimland was a proponent of various biomedical interventions for autism, including vitamin and mineral supplements, diet modifications, and the controversial use of chelation therapy to remove heavy metals from the body. His advocacy for these treatments was often met with mixed reactions from the medical community, with some praising his innovative approach to autism treatment and others criticizing the lack of scientific evidence supporting these methods.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Bernard Rimland's work had a profound impact on the field of autism research and the way society views individuals with autism. He is credited with bringing attention to the biological underpinnings of autism and advocating for the rights and needs of people with ASD. His efforts paved the way for future research into genetic and environmental factors contributing to autism and helped to establish a more compassionate and scientific approach to autism treatment and care.

Rimland's legacy continues through the work of the Autism Society of America and the Autism Research Institute, which remain active in advocating for individuals with autism and their families, promoting research, and providing information and support.

Death[edit | edit source]

Bernard Rimland passed away on November 21, 2006, at the age of 78. His death was a significant loss to the autism community, but his contributions continue to influence the field of autism research and advocacy.