False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 01 No 10 - 1992 nov

Magazine Overview

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue Date: November 5, 1992
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Country of Publication: US
Language: English

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter delves deeply into the controversial topic of trauma theory and the phenomenon of recovered memories, particularly in the context of alleged childhood sexual abuse. The newsletter questions the prevailing therapeutic approaches that rely heavily on uncovering repressed memories, suggesting that such practices may inadvertently create false memories, leading to family destruction and unjust accusations.

Trauma Theory and Recovered Memories

The newsletter opens with a letter from a mother expressing her daughter's sudden return after years of estrangement, attributing it to the FMS material. This sets the stage for a discussion on how people relinquish memories and the emergence of a network of 'recanters' who are now speaking out.

The core of the issue is an examination of 'trauma theory,' which posits that adult problems stem from childhood trauma. The newsletter critiques this theory, arguing that it has become an overly simplistic explanation adopted by the mental health community and the press. It highlights how this theory can lead to a 'victim' mentality and potentially overlook other explanations for adult issues.

Researchers in cognitive science are cited to emphasize that children are active learners and theory builders, not passive recipients of information. The newsletter contrasts this with the current emphasis on trauma theory, which it suggests is being grossly oversimplified. Examples are given of how theories evolve with new information, unlike the rigid application of trauma theory.

The 'Incest Survivor Movement' and Its Impact

The newsletter presents two stories illustrating the impact of the incest survivor movement. The first, from The New York Times, details a record number of child killings linked to troubled families and criticized caseworkers for overlooking the role of men. The second, from The Wall Street Journal, discusses a lawsuit where a granddaughter claimed sexual abuse trauma prevented her from challenging her grandfather's will years earlier.

The newsletter argues that the current interpretation of trauma theory is problematic because it lacks explanatory power and is difficult to test. It criticizes the notion that if a person is accused and confesses, they are guilty, but if they profess innocence, they are considered 'in denial.' This is compared to the Salem witch trials, where accusations were treated as proof of guilt.

Critiques of Trauma Theory and Therapeutic Practices

Several reasons are suggested for the widespread adoption of trauma theory by mental health professionals, including the belief that childhood sexual abuse is common, a tendency to believe patients, the need for therapeutic alliance, contextual thinking (power of men over women), belief in the Recovery Movement, and financial benefits for therapists. The newsletter questions the validity of these reasons and highlights the potential for harm.

Dr. Harold Lief is cited for possible reasons a person might have terrible memories and make a false accusation, including punishing oneself or others, seeking a simple explanation for problems, avoiding blame, attracting attention, or screening other traumas.

Recanter's Perspective

A powerful 'Letter from a Recanter' offers a personal account of suffering from false memories of child abuse and finding a way out. This individual urges parents not to give up hope on their children, to challenge 'brainwashed attitudes with logic,' and to educate themselves and others about memory and scientific research. The recanter describes being part of a 'destructive cult' where thinking was discouraged in favor of 'feeling,' and expresses a desire for healing and reconciliation.

Caution Advised for Therapists

The newsletter provides a list of 'Information Needed in Assessing Allegations by Adults of Sex Abuse in Childhood,' adapted from a publication by Wakefield and Underwager. This comprehensive list includes the need for all medical, psychiatric, and school records, information on relationships, sexual history, therapy details, exposure to media on sexual abuse, and the psychological and social history of both the accuser and the accused.

It also outlines possible benefits for the accuser, such as financial gain, explanation for life's difficulties, expression of anger, attention, or social acceptance within survivor groups. The newsletter emphasizes that a single hypothesis accounting for everything, like the destruction of a family, can be a sign of a flawed theory.

Foundation Activities and Outreach

The FMS Foundation is actively engaged in spreading awareness through various channels. They are sending information packets to social work schools, psychological associations, and clinical psychology departments. National television news shows have featured FMS stories, and the foundation is working with the press, noting that reporters have generally been compassionate and fair.

However, the foundation expresses concern about the uncritical acceptance of repressed memories by television 'talk' shows, suggesting that 'ratings' often take precedence over responsibility. They are also working with 'Dear Abby' to raise awareness of the issue.

Legal Developments and Support

The FMS Foundation Legal Advisory Board is working on a 'Legal Resource Book.' The newsletter mentions a US Supreme Court decision upholding grandparents' visitation rights, emphasizing that children are not solely the property of their parents but part of a social network. This is relevant to families who have been denied contact with their grandchildren.

Criticism and Response

The newsletter addresses criticism it has received, particularly regarding its support for lie detector tests. While acknowledging that psychologists question the accuracy of these tests, the foundation defends their use as a last resort when only one person's word is available. They also address criticism from Utah labeling the foundation as 'perpetrators in denial,' and express a desire for critics to share their reasoning.

Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD)

An article discusses the topic of Multiple Personality Disorder, referencing H. Merskey's work which suggests that widespread publicity may be contributing to an increase in MPD diagnoses. The foundation questions whether MPD is being overdiagnosed and expresses concern for the well-being of survivors, stating they are a threat to unsubstantiated accusations and misguided theories.

Notice to Siblings

Siblings are invited to send their stories for a book titled 'Confabulations,' which will offer a perspective on False Memory Syndrome through the eyes of sisters and brothers.

Financial Support Needed

The FMS Foundation highlights the significant expense of its outreach activities and appeals for financial support. They emphasize that they are a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charity and rely on donations to continue their work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of 'trauma theory' and the recovered memory movement. The FMS Foundation's stance is one of skepticism towards the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, advocating for scientific rigor, careful assessment, and a consideration of alternative explanations for psychological distress. The newsletter consistently emphasizes the potential for harm caused by misguided therapeutic practices and the importance of protecting families from false accusations. There is a strong undercurrent of concern for the well-being of individuals and families caught in what they perceive as a flawed system, and a call for greater accountability within the mental health profession.