Horizon Season 1987 Episode 5 Bruno Bettelheim: The Man Who Cared For Children

In Horizon season 1987 episode 5, viewers are introduced to the controversial figure of Bruno Bettelheim. As a psychologist and Holocaust survivor, Bettelheim gained renown for his work with troubled children at the University of Chicago's Orthogenic School. The episode explores Bettelheim's theories and methods, which were often criticized for being harsh and unorthodox.

Despite his detractors, Bettelheim attracted a following of parents and educators who believed in his approach. Through interviews with former students, colleagues, and family members, Horizon paints a complex portrait of the man behind the ideas. Viewers will see footage of Bettelheim interacting with children at the Orthogenic School, as well as hear from those who worked alongside him.

But the episode also delves into the controversies surrounding Bettelheim's legacy. Viewers will see interviews with skeptics who criticize his methods, as well as accounts from former students who felt mistreated by him. In particular, the show investigates allegations that Bettelheim physically abused his patients, a claim that he vehemently denied.

Ultimately, Horizon's exploration of Bruno Bettelheim offers a nuanced look at a complex figure in the history of child psychology. Through interviews and archival footage, viewers will gain insight into the man, his ideas, and his impact on the field of psychology. But they will also be forced to confront the darker aspects of Bettelheim's legacy, prompting questions about the ethics of psychological treatment and the limits of academic freedom.