False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 01 No 07 - 1992 july

Magazine Overview

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated July 21, 1992, serves as a communication channel for the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. The newsletter aims to inform the public about the nature of memory, the phenomenon of false memories, and the impact of accusations of abuse, particularly incest, often recovered through therapy.

Key Articles and Content

Introduction and Foundation's Work The newsletter opens with a letter to 'Dear Friends,' addressing the public's intrigue with the name 'False Memory Syndrome Foundation.' The foundation reports a significant increase in calls and families seeking assistance, noting that a year ago they knew of only one family in this situation, whereas now they are aware of over 650 families with similar stories. The foundation highlights increased media attention, with articles appearing in major newspapers and an upcoming piece in the New York Times. They emphasize that false memory syndrome is now a subject open for discussion and examination. The foundation is also planning a national conference to discuss repressed memory issues.

Understanding Memory A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to explaining the nature of human memory. It clarifies that memories are not stored like photographs or computer data but are actively reconstructed and reinterpreted. The newsletter challenges the notion of 'repressed memories' as a defense mechanism against trauma, questioning why such memories are not reported from events like the Holocaust. It also points to recovered memories of implausible events (e.g., alien abuse, past lives, birth canal experiences) as phenomena that any theory of repression must explain.

Calls to the Foundation The newsletter details the types of calls received by the foundation: * Accusers: Individuals who question their own recovered memories and therapy. The foundation states it documents stories but does not verify them, emphasizing accountability for perpetrators while acknowledging the distress of those with false memories. * Families: Families devastated by accusations of incest and abuse, often from adult children who have recovered memories. These families report severed relationships and the difficulty of reconciling accusations with their knowledge of the accused parent. * Professionals: Approximately 40% of calls come from lawyers, doctors, mental health workers, university administrators, and representatives from 'think tanks' and government agencies seeking information. * Reporters: Journalists from across the nation contact the foundation for stories.

Statistics and Sexual Abuse The newsletter critically examines statistics related to child sexual abuse. It notes the wide discrepancies in reported figures (ranging from 6% to 62%) and questions the reliability of data collected during periods of increased reporting mandates. The foundation suggests that the Department of Health and Human Services' figures, in the single digits, might be more reflective of the actual incidence when using strict definitions.

Survey Data on Children with False Memories Several pages are dedicated to presenting data from surveys of children who have recovered memories. Key findings include: * Distance from Parents: Children with false memories do not necessarily live far from their parents. * Marital Status: No clear pattern emerges regarding the marital status of accusing children. * Psychiatric History: Most children who recovered memories did not have a history of psychological or psychiatric treatment before going to a therapist as an adult. * Stressful Situations: Common stressful situations reported in the two to three years prior to memory recovery include physical illness, emotional illness, relationship issues, job/school stress, and trauma. * Discipline Methods: Data on discipline methods used in childhood suggests a variety of approaches, with spanking and sending to room being common. * Parental Responsibility: In many families, one parent assumed greater responsibility for discipline. * Number of Children in Accused Families: Statistics are provided on the number of children in families facing accusations. * Parental Work: A significant number of fathers (35 out of 131) worked outside the home during the period of alleged abuse. * Other Adults in Home: In a notable portion of cases, other adults (grandparents, nannies, friends, relatives) were in close contact with the accusing child.

Meetings and Resources

The newsletter announces upcoming meetings for families across the United States and Canada, where members share learned information and discuss strategies for informing influential people. It also lists recommended readings, including "Freudian Fraud" by E. Fuller Torrey, "Hidden Memories" by Robert Baker, and "Courage to Heal" by Bass and Davis, noting that while "Courage to Heal" is considered the 'bible of the incest recovery movement,' parents often find it helpful for understanding their children's behavior.

Ethics of Therapy

A section titled 'A question of ethics' addresses concerns about therapists who, after diagnosing incest, may push clients towards lawsuits as part of recovery, potentially for financial gain. It directs readers to the Ethics Committee of the American Psychological Association for further inquiry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of the newsletter is the critical examination of recovered memories, particularly those of childhood sexual abuse. The FMS Foundation adopts a stance that questions the accuracy and origin of such memories, emphasizing the potential for reconstruction and misinterpretation within therapeutic contexts. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards the concept of 'repressed memories' as a defense mechanism and a concern for the devastating impact false accusations can have on families. The foundation positions itself as a source of information and support for families affected by these issues, advocating for a balanced perspective and a thorough understanding of memory's complexities. They also highlight the need for ethical practices within the mental health profession.