Why did many families send their children with disabilities to institutions between the 1800s and 1970s?

Many families sent their children with disabilities to institutions between the 1800s and 1970s primarily because they were provided no other options for care. During this time period, societal attitudes towards individuals with disabilities were largely negative, and there was a significant lack of resources and support systems available for families. With limited understanding of disabilities and the absence of integrated educational or social programs, families often felt that institutionalization was the only viable solution for providing care.

These institutions were seen as a way to ensure the safety and basic needs of children with disabilities, albeit often with harsh conditions and limited attention to individual needs. The prevalent view was that families could not manage the challenges posed by having a child with a disability at home, which contributed to the mainstream acceptance of sending children to these institutions. Other options were either unavailable or inadequately developed, leading families to feel that sending their children away was a necessary step.