FMS Foundation Newsletter

Magazine Overview

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated February 5, 1993, Volume 2, Number 2, focuses on the complex and controversial topic of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) and its implications for individuals and families. The newsletter highlights the increasing workload of the FMS Foundation due to media attention and the growing number of people seeking information and support. It also announces the foundation's move to larger quarters to accommodate its expanding resources.

Letters and Personal Accounts

The newsletter opens with a letter from "Dear Friends," detailing the increased demand on the FMSF office and the foundation's expansion. It then presents a story from a reader about a friend whose daughter accused him of sexual abuse, mirroring a similar situation the reader is experiencing, suggesting a widespread pattern. Another letter from New Zealand describes an organization of families outraged by the depletion of funds for crime victims due to recovered repressed memories, a pattern also observed in Washington State.

A section titled "Findings from a Study of Victims Compensation in Washington State" presents data from the Washington State Institute for Public Policy. It indicates that sexual assault claims constitute a growing percentage of victim compensation funds, with repressed memory claims being particularly costly. The study also notes a significant increase in repressed memory filings.

Pamela writes a letter to "Dear Prime Time Live," thanking them for their production "Devilish Deeds" which covered the sensitive topic of repressed memories and therapist suggestion. She commends the program for documenting how therapists can inadvertently lead patients to fulfill their own expectations.

Another section addresses a "Dear Parent" letter, where a therapist informs a parent that their daughter has recalled repressed memories of childhood sexual abuse by the parent. The letter details the daughter's distress, the need for expensive therapy, and the parent's shock and disbelief.

Jeff Younggren, a psychotherapy expert, is quoted from a San Diego Union-Tribune article, recommending an examination of "ritual abuse therapy" for potential malpractice. He states that such therapy has no scientific basis and can be harmful to individuals and families.

A section titled "Heartbroken" shares a story from a parent whose oldest daughter suddenly turned against them, exhibiting symptoms that suggest a False Memory Syndrome. The daughter has cut off contact, and the parents are devastated, especially as the husband was ill and passed away shortly after the accusation.

Analysis of Memory and Repression

The newsletter delves into the concept of repression, questioning whether it exists and if the memories recovered through certain therapies are accurate. It cites scientific evidence suggesting that human memory is reconstructed and not a perfect recording. The article critiques the idea of repressed memories being like a "time capsule" that remains untouched. It argues that "newly discovered" memories may include the wishes and fantasies of both the child and the adult, and that the context of uncovering these memories can shape them. The article emphasizes that the vividness or emotional force of a memory is not a reliable indicator of its accuracy.

"Evidence Grows of Abuse by Psychiatric Hospitals"

This section references a study from the Monitor of the American Psychological Association that concluded a significant percentage of hospital admissions and care days in private psychiatric hospitals were unnecessary. This corroborates findings from a 1992 House Select Committee hearing on abuses in psychiatric hospitals.

"Where do we go from here?"

This section features a letter from a parent whose daughter, living in another state, has accused them of sexual abuse. The parent expresses distress over the lack of communication and the difficulty in addressing the situation, especially since they were never allowed to speak with the therapists involved.

"My Sister's Story"

This lengthy personal account details the experience of a woman whose sister developed a serious mental disorder, paranoid schizophrenia, after being influenced by a counselor who promoted the idea of repressed memories of sexual abuse. The counselor convinced the sister that psychiatry was a conspiracy and that her symptoms were due to repressed memories, leading her to stop medication and discharge herself from the hospital. The sister's condition deteriorated, leading to erratic behavior and estrangement from her family.

Governing Agencies and Reporting Unethical Practices

Parents are encouraged to contact the Office of Professional Discipline in New York State to report concerns about therapists who may be helping to create or reinforce false memories in their adult children. The newsletter provides contact information for these agencies and for the National Association of Social Workers.

"Our Critics"

The newsletter addresses criticism from a group calling themselves "Survivors of FMSF" who refer to FMSF as an advocacy organization. The FMSF clarifies that they advocate for "critical thinking" rather than being a direct advocacy group for survivors.

FMS Foundation Conference

Information is provided about the FMS Foundation Conference titled "Memory and Reality: Emerging Crisis," scheduled for April 16-18, 1993, in Valley Forge, PA. The newsletter includes the conference schedule, hotel accommodation information, and a call for sponsors to help defray transportation costs for individuals who have experienced false memories and wish to attend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this newsletter revolve around the critical examination of repressed memory therapy and the False Memory Syndrome. The FMS Foundation expresses skepticism regarding the scientific validity of recovered memories, emphasizing the potential for suggestion and reconstruction. They advocate for critical thinking and careful consideration of evidence, particularly in cases of alleged childhood abuse. The newsletter also highlights the devastating impact of FMS on families and the need for accurate information and support. The editorial stance appears to be one of caution and critical inquiry into the practices and claims associated with the "recovery of repressed memories" movement, while acknowledging the reality of abuse and the importance of mental health care.

This document is a newsletter or promotional material from the False Memory Syndrome Foundation, announcing a conference titled 'Memory and Reality: Emerging Crisis' held from April 16-18, 1993, at the Valley Forge Convention Center in Pennsylvania. The foundation addresses the growing concern over repressed memories of incest and sexual abuse, which they identify as the 'False Memory Syndrome' (FMS).

Conference Details

The conference was organized in response to the crisis surrounding FMS, aiming to present the latest scientific research on the phenomenon, memory, and suggestibility. The issues discussed were relevant to a wide range of fields, including medical, legal, clinical and experimental psychology, insurance, sociology, media, and families. The event featured several panels, covering topics such as 'What is Known About the FMS Phenomenon,' 'Memory: The Research to Date,' 'Theoretical Perspectives on Recovered Memories: Trauma vs Conflict,' 'Epidemiology of False Memory Syndrome,' 'Legal Issues,' 'Panel of People Who Have Experienced FMS,' and 'Professional Responses to the Problem.'

Speakers and Participants

A notable list of speakers was featured, including academics and medical professionals from prestigious institutions. Among them were Robyn M. Dawes, Ph.D. (Carnegie Mellon University); Fred Frankel, M.B.Ch.B., D.P.M. (Harvard University); George K. Ganaway, M.D. (Emory University); Richard Green, M.D., J.D. (UCLA); Harold Lief, M.D. (University of Pennsylvania); Elizabeth Loftus, Ph.D. (University of Washington); Paul McHugh, M.D. (Johns Hopkins University); Richard Ofshe, Ph.D. (University of California, Berkeley); Martin Orne, M.D., Ph.D. (University of Pennsylvania); Margaret Singer, Ph.D. (University of California, Berkeley); Ralph Underwager, Ph.D. (Institute of Psychological Therapies); and Hollida Wakefield, MA (Institute of Psychological Therapies).

Registration and Contact Information

Information for registration and inquiries was provided, with Pamela Freyd, Ph.D., serving as the Executive Director. The contact address was 3401 Market Street-Suite 130, Philadelphia, PA 19104, with a phone number of 215-387-1865. A separate registration form was included, detailing rates for different membership types: Family member - individual ($100.00), Family member - family ($150.00), Professional - non-member ($250.00), and Professional - member ($100.00). Attendees could also indicate interest in pre-paying for lunches and specify any special dietary needs. Payment methods included Visa, Mastercard, or check, payable to the FMS Foundation.

Foundation Support and Contributions

Page 4 of the document details the False Memory Syndrome Foundation's status as a non-profit organization granted tax-exempt status by the IRS, with all contributions being tax-deductible and donor identities confidential. Membership contributions were suggested at $100 for family and $125 for professional members, supporting services like packets, help-lines, newsletters, and special mailings. The foundation acknowledged the financial strain on families due to accusations and legal costs, and noted that younger siblings often initiate contact. Special contribution levels of $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 were also listed, emphasizing their importance for increasing support, continuing family surveys, supporting research, and developing materials. A form was provided for enclosing membership contributions or pledges, with an option to offset estimated costs for packets, phone time, and newsletters ($20.00).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the controversial nature of 'False Memory Syndrome' and its impact on individuals and families, particularly concerning accusations of incest and sexual abuse. The foundation positions itself as a source of scientific research and support for those affected, advocating for a nuanced understanding of memory and suggestibility. The editorial stance appears to be critical of the unreliability of recovered memories in certain therapeutic contexts, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor and professional responses to the phenomenon. The foundation actively seeks financial support to continue its work in research, public awareness, and providing resources.