Feral and Isolated Children: Historical Review and Analysis

Abstract

An historical review of the documented cases of feral and other environmentally deprived children is presented. Specific attention is given to the most commonly cited characteristics of such children with illustrations provided through the detailing of individual case studies. Discussion focuses on four groups of atypically reared children: animal-reared children, children isolated in the wilderness, children confined in isolation, and children confined with limited human contact. Analyses highlight rationales as to why specific individuals within these sub-groups responded positively in varying degrees to their incorporation into society. Philosophical and educational implications of research on such children is also discussed.

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