Temple Grandin, born on August 29, 1947, is a figure in both the autism community and among animal scientists. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in human psychology, then went on to earn her master’s and PhD in animal science. She acts as a consultant in the livestock industry and offers advice on animal behavior, which she says she understands more than humans as a result of her autism. She has designed numerous livestock handling facilities across North America, Europe, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand.
Diagnosed with autism at 2 years old when understanding was limited, Grandin overcame significant challenges to achieve success. As a child, she “screamed, hummed, engaged in repetitive behaviors, and threw destructive tantrums. She was fearful of hugs and flinched when touched,” and did not speak until 3 1/2 years old. Because of her aversion to touch and comfort by a human, she built a self-soothing apparatus called the “squeeze machine,” which would put pressure on her body and ease any anxieties she was having in the moment. She went on to adapt this machine to benefit livestock, which would have the same calming effect on them. Grandin researched animal behavior and used her experience with autism to minimize stress in animals. Animals think in pictures, so she is better able to understand and relate to their cognitive processes since her thinking is largely visual as well. Her understanding of empathy is sensory-based. She is able relate to animal experiences more than a neurotypical person.
Grandin is renowned for her designs in livestock handling systems that emphasize humane treatment and efficiency. Her perspective shaped by her autism allowed her to approach problems differently, leading to innovative solutions that transformed the livestock industry. She has become an advocate for individuals with autism, using her personal experiences to highlight the value of neurodiversity and promote greater understanding and acceptance. Her contributions continue to inspire and influence various fields, bridging gaps between science, empathy, and inclusivity.
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