Describes Dr. Bettelheim's seminal work with what were then referred to as "emotionally disturbed" children at the Children's Institute at the University of Chicago. Written in 1950, it describes observations, insights, and approaches to children with a variety of developmental and behavioral disorders, including, interestingly, those who were just being recognized as autistic. The style is descriptive and conversational, appropriate for both parents looking for historical perspective and amazingly current insight or professionals working with children with emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges.
The book, copyrighted in 1950, this paperback edition having been printed in 1971, is called "a classic report on the most extraordinary school in America." It was, indeed, an extraordinary school, and it achieved great things. Although the title says love is not enough, you feel that there was a great deal of love involved in the way the children were treated, and, as pointed out on the back cover, Dr. Bettelheim draws pointed lessons for the parents of normal children, as well. The Pyschiatric Quarterly says that this book "has deservedly become a classic...highly recommended to all parents." In spite of the time that has passed since it was written, I feel it is still relevant today.
