False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 03 No 01 - 1994 jan

Magazine Overview

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated January 17, 1994, Volume 3, Number 1, is published by the FMS Foundation and focuses on the controversial topic of recovered memories and alleged child abuse. The newsletter presents the foundation's perspective that many recovered memories might be fabricated or influenced by therapy, leading to false accusations and significant harm to families.

Editorial and Foundation Update

The newsletter begins with a thank you to supporters, noting the foundation's growth to nearly 10,000 families. It addresses criticisms of the foundation, particularly from figures like Dr. Judith Herman, and frames the debate as a potential 'witch hunt.' The editorial highlights the misuse of science to promote a political agenda, asserting that 'flashbacks' are not necessarily historical reality and that 'repressed memories' are not inherently more pristine than other memories. The foundation argues that the consequences of sexual abuse vary and that the definition of sexual abuse has become unclear, leading to societal ignorance.

The foundation has been in existence for almost two years, and its information about memory has faced no serious challenge from memory researchers. The newsletter criticizes those who attack individuals rather than addressing the issues, citing an example from Philadelphia magazine. It notes that media coverage has shown increasing understanding, and that the core issue is how human beings are treated, rather than whether people are abused or remember it.

Key Articles and Contributions

"Do no harm." This section questions whether medical professionals are adhering to their oath, particularly when patients are excluded from consideration in the diagnosis and treatment plan. It suggests that the current situation may constitute 'psychological elder abuse.' The article emphasizes the need for professionals to work with families and for face-to-face meetings to foster mutual understanding.

Comments on Linda Meyer Williams study by Richard A. Gardner, M.D. Dr. Gardner comments on a study by Dr. Linda Meyer Williams, which found that 38% of women with documented childhood sexual abuse had no recollection of it. While considering the study excellent, Gardner is critical of the authors' implication that it refutes FMSF's position that recovered memories can be fabricated. He argues that the study does not preclude the existence of false accusations, whether stemming from overzealous therapists or other factors.

"Desperately Seeking Satan" by Barbara Grizzuti Harrison This reprinted article from Mirabella magazine critically examines the media's focus on bizarre tales of satanic-ritual child abuse, contrasting it with the reality of everyday domestic violence. Harrison questions the phenomenon of 'recovery memory' and the claims of multiple-personality disorders arising from alleged satanic conspiracies. The article critiques the role of talk shows in sensationalizing abuse allegations and questions the validity of recovered memories, suggesting that children are suggestible and can be influenced by hectoring interviewers. It highlights the danger of focusing on sensational cases while neglecting the more common reality of domestic abuse.

"What kind of training in memory do therapists get?" This section discusses the limited formal training in memory, memory retrieval, recall, and repression provided in Master of Social Work programs. It notes that educators often lack formal preparation in these subjects and that students are frequently directed to non-scientific material.

"The German minister could hardly wait to speak." This anecdote, told by Robert Becker, illustrates how propaganda can manipulate large populations, drawing a parallel to the current climate surrounding unsubstantiated sexual abuse claims. Becker argues that misleading propaganda has proliferated, leading to the stigmatization of individuals without conviction and a loss of societal decency, justice, and truth.

S.O.U.P.! Letter and FMSF Response A letter from S.O.U.P.! demands a retraction of statements made about their organization, claiming the information published is false and libelous. The FMSF responds by clarifying its position, stating that it does not defend perpetrators but aims to bring out the truth about false memory and the harm caused by untrue charges. They note that S.O.U.P.! publishes names of accused individuals and that the FMSF's purpose is not to defend perpetrators but to expose the dangers of false memory.

Reader Letters Several letters from readers share personal experiences and concerns. One letter from 'A Mom' describes her daughter's alienation due to therapy and her subsequent turnaround after her boyfriend's support. Another letter from 'A Sister' details how her family has been victimized by her older sister's recovered memories of childhood abuse, which have nearly destroyed her parents.

"Why would anyone so eagerly confess to unspeakable crimes?" This section, part of the 'Desperately Seeking Satan' article, discusses the case of Paul R. Ingram, a deputy sheriff accused by his daughters. It explores how interrogation tactics and a belief system predisposed him to confess to crimes he couldn't remember, highlighting the influence of fundamentalist beliefs and the concept of a 'dark side.' The article questions the nature of memory, suggesting it is part of the imaginative process and can be constructed, influenced by therapists and societal narratives.

Additions to Bibliography A list of articles and books related to recovered memory, false accusations, and child abuse is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the controversy surrounding recovered memory therapy, the potential for false accusations of child abuse, and the ethical responsibilities of therapists and the media. The FMS Foundation's stance is critical of the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, emphasizing the importance of evidence, the presumption of innocence, and the distinction between real abuse and potentially fabricated memories. The newsletter advocates for a more balanced and scientifically grounded approach to these complex issues, prioritizing truth and justice for all involved.

This document is the January 1994 issue, number 11, of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, published by the FMS Foundation. The newsletter's primary purpose is to disseminate information related to the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) and its activities.

Email List for Broadcast Notices

The newsletter begins with an invitation for readers to join an email list to receive notices of radio and television broadcasts about FMS. Interested individuals are instructed to send a message to [email protected] with the subject 'add to the FMS list'. While not mandatory, providing a full name is encouraged, and all information is kept confidential. The list is exclusively for sending broadcast notices and is not a forum for discussion.

Audio Tapes Available

From One Daughter to Another

An audio tape is available, created from the life experience of Janet Puhr. The tape is described as having an approach designed to guide a daughter through a situational path of reality, aiming to bring her back to a positive emotional state. The tape is 50 minutes long and costs $30, including shipping. An additional $3 is required for 2-day express delivery. Checks should be made payable to Janet Puhr and sent to P.O. Box 293, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415. The editor apologizes for a previous listing error, clarifying that this is an audio tape, not a video tape, and that replacement tapes will be provided if the original contained noise interference.

Video Tapes Available

Adults Belated Accusations of Child Sexual Abuse

A seventy-five-minute video recording is available, featuring a presentation by Richard A. Gardner, M.D., given at the FMSF in New York City on September 19, 1993. The presentation details Dr. Gardner's views on the factors contributing to the "sex-abuse hysteria" observed in the US since the early 1980s. This video is considered valuable for therapists, lawyers, and individuals assisting families. Orders can be placed by calling 800-544-6162, or in New Jersey by calling 201-567-7295 or FAXing 201-567-8956. The cost is $15 per tape, plus $2 for postage and handling. New Jersey residents must also add a 6% sales tax ($.90 per tape). Orders can be sent to Creative Therapetics, Inc., P.O. Box 522, Cresskill, NJ 07626-0317.

Conferences and Events

Criminal Lawyers' Association Conference

The "Abuse and Misuse of Science: Recovered Memories" conference, organized by the Criminal Lawyers' Association, was scheduled to take place from November 5-7, 1993, in Toronto. Contact information for Alan D. Gold, Barrister, is provided for inquiries: 20 Adelaid Street East, Suite 210, Toronto, ON M5C 2T6, with phone number 416-368-1726 and fax number 416-368-6811.

FMSF Newsletter Subscription Information

The FMSF Newsletter is published 10 times a year by the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. A subscription is included with membership fees. Non-members can subscribe by sending a check or money order payable to FMS Foundation to the address provided. The 1994 subscription rates are: USA: $20 for 1 year, $10 for students; Canada: $25 for 1 year (in U.S. dollars); Foreign: $35 for 1 year (in U.S. dollars). A single issue costs $3.

FMS Foundation Contact Information and Advisory Board

The FMS Foundation's address is 3401 Market Street, Suite 130, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3315. Their phone number is 215-387-1865. The ISSN for the newsletter is 1069-0484. Pamela Freyd, Ph.D., serves as the Executive Director. The newsletter also lists the members of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board as of January 17, 1993. This extensive list includes numerous Ph.D.s and M.D.s from various universities and institutions across the United States and Canada, specializing in fields such as clinical and forensic psychology, psychiatry, and law.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the False Memory Syndrome, its implications, and related controversies. The newsletter highlights resources such as audio and video tapes that address aspects of recovered memories and alleged child sexual abuse hysteria. The inclusion of a conference for criminal lawyers on the "Abuse and Misuse of Science: Recovered Memories" suggests an engagement with the legal and scientific debates surrounding these issues. The editorial stance appears to be one of providing information and resources to those affected by or interested in False Memory Syndrome, while also acknowledging and engaging with critical perspectives, as evidenced by the Dr. Gardner video and the lawyers' conference.