Genie (feral child)

The term "Genie" often refers to a feral child who was the subject of a linguistics case study in the 1970s. Genie's real name is not disclosed to protect her privacy. She was discovered in 1970 in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 13, having spent most of her life isolated and abused by her father. Genie had been kept in extreme isolation and had suffered severe neglect, which resulted in her being developmentally delayed and unable to speak.

Genie's case garnered significant attention from researchers interested in understanding language acquisition and the effects of extreme deprivation on human development. Linguists and psychologists worked with Genie to try to teach her language and help her develop social skills. However, her progress was limited, and her case raised ethical questions about conducting research with vulnerable individuals.

After several years of study, Genie's case faded from public view. She was placed in the care of foster parents and later moved into a series of adult care facilities. Due to concerns about her privacy and well-being, not much information has been publicly available about Genie since the 1970s.