False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 01 No 05 - 1992 may

Magazine Overview

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated May 21, 1992, is a publication focused on the controversial topic of recovered memories, particularly in the context of alleged child abuse and incest. The newsletter aims to provide a platform for families and professionals grappling with these issues, questioning the prevailing therapeutic assumptions and highlighting the potential for false memories.

Editorial Content

The newsletter opens with a letter to "Dear Friends," detailing the overwhelming response to the FMS Foundation's 800 number, which has been inundated with calls from over one hundred families and professionals in just a few weeks. These calls are a direct result of stories about FMS Foundation members that have been featured in various media outlets. The foundation expresses gratitude to the reporters who covered these sensitive stories, noting their willingness to question the narratives presented to them.

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to discussing the "adult-children" who have recovered memories of abuse, often leading them to accuse their parents and sever contact. The FMS Foundation points out a recurring pattern: therapists often refuse to consider evidence that might contradict the recovered memories, such as lie detector test results or childhood medical reports. The book "Courage to Heal" is frequently mentioned in these cases. The newsletter emphasizes that memory is not a static recording but a creative and reconstructive process, prone to reinterpretation and the creation of false memories.

To illustrate the complexities and potential misinterpretations, the newsletter references an article from the Pittsburgh Press about a legal victory for a falsely-accused family. This case is presented as shedding light on how therapists' assumptions can influence client relationships and potentially lead to the formation of untrue memories.

Office News

The FMS Foundation announces that its office is preparing to go into full operation, with a computer system being set up and the 800 number soon to be transferred to Philadelphia. Information booklets are being printed, and volunteers are preparing packets for mailing. A press release is planned to formally announce the foundation's existence. The newsletter expresses thanks to all who have supported the foundation through calls, surveys, dues, contributions, and by sharing information about relevant events across the country.

Special acknowledgment is given to Holly Wakefield and Ralph Underwager from the Institute of Psychological Therapies for their professional support in establishing the FMS Foundation as an independent organization.

"What if?" Section

This section poses a critical question: "One of our members wonders if the 'adult-child incest survivor' phenomenon is undermining the very situation it purports to address—namely, trying to stop the sexual abuse of children." The writer suggests that legal, financial, and mental health resources are being diverted to cases where children may not be in danger, and where the recovered memories might be inaccurate due to the nature of memory. The question is raised whether the motivation behind the "adult incest survivor" movement, as described in "Courage to Heal," might be "misguided" rather than a direct effort to combat child sexual abuse, especially in light of newspaper reports indicating an increase in child abuse incidents despite widespread publicity.

"A Mother's Story"

This personal account details a mother's experience with her 26-year-old daughter, who became severely ill and was diagnosed with "chronic mononucleosis." Despite seeking alternative cures and finding some relief through dietary changes, the daughter's condition persisted. The narrative then shifts to a psychological interpretation, where therapists suggested the illness was due to repressed anger and traumatic incidents in her childhood. The mother describes her daughter's deteriorating mental state, the doctors' recommendations for therapy and medication, and the accusations made against the mother, including claims of codependency and fulfilling her own needs through her daughter's career. The story highlights the emotional toll on the family and the mother's plea for help in getting her daughter proper medical treatment.

"Reaching Out"

This section encourages members to assist others but requests that they coordinate with the FMS Foundation office before taking action. The foundation emphasizes the importance of collective efforts reflecting dignity and suggests that communication should be done through appropriate media like newsletters or papers, not flyers on personal property.

"More Survey Results"

This section presents findings from 112 responses to a question about specific accusations made by individuals claiming recovered memories. The responses were coded into categories, with "Vague" being the most common (33%), indicating that many respondents did not have clear details of the alleged abuse. Other categories include accusations of incest, satanic ritual abuse (15% of responses), and the presence of witnesses (13%). Specific examples of accusations are provided, detailing various forms of alleged abuse, including penetration, group sex, and ritualistic acts.

"Recommended Reading"

The newsletter recommends the book "I'm Dysfunctional, You're Dysfunctional" by Wendy Kaminer, published in 1992.

"Support Is Needed"

This section appeals for continued membership dues and charitable donations to support the foundation's operations. FMS has applied for non-profit status, making contributions tax-deductible. An annual membership fee of $100 is mentioned.

"Philadelphia Area - Volunteers Needed"

An appeal is made for volunteers in the Philadelphia area to assist with office tasks such as mailing, filing, and preparing packets for new families. The newsletter also mentions the need for help with survey preparation and distribution.

"Meetings Scheduled"

Several meetings are announced for different regions: New York Area (May 28, 1992), Southwest Area (Oklahoma City, June 27, 1992), Toronto, Canada area (date to be announced), Northwest area (Washington, date to be announced), and Philadelphia (June 13, 1992). The Utah area meeting on Thursday evening, June 25, is noted with a change of date.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the controversy surrounding recovered memories, the potential for false memories, the impact of therapeutic practices on memory recall, and the distress experienced by families accused of abuse. The editorial stance of the FMS Foundation appears to be one of skepticism towards the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, advocating for a more balanced and evidence-based approach to investigating allegations of child abuse. The foundation positions itself as a support system for families who feel misunderstood and wrongly accused, aiming to bring a more rational perspective to a highly emotional and complex issue.