False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 04 No 03 - 1995 mar

Magazine Overview

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue Date: March 1, 1995
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter delves into the controversial topic of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) and Recovered Memory Therapy (RMT). It highlights legal and administrative actions, discusses ongoing debates within the mental health field, and presents various perspectives on memory, trauma, and abuse.

Key Articles and Features

Washington State Takes Action Against Therapist

The newsletter reports that the state of Washington is the first to respond to the mental health crisis of False Memory Syndrome by taking administrative action against Linda Rae MacDonald of Gateway Counseling. She faces charges that could lead to the loss of her license unless she can defend herself against allegations including encouraging a client to isolate herself from her family and validating memories without seeking external verification.

New Hampshire Considers Informed Consent Bill

New Hampshire is the second state to address the crisis, with its legislature holding a hearing on a bill that would require patients undergoing experimental methods like Recovered Memory Therapy to be informed of the risks and limitations, especially when government or insurance funds are involved. This initiative was spurred by the imprisonment of a man based on a therapist's interpretation of his daughter's dream.

The Debate Over Recovered Memories

The FMS Foundation expresses concern over why many professionals continue to defend Recovered Memory Therapy despite its perceived risks. The newsletter references an article from 'The Inquirer' about the 'extravagant climate' of the 1980s in mental health, where patients could stay in talk therapy for years. It also notes a lawsuit filed by 10 Texas psychiatrists against ex-patients who had made complaints, which is part of a larger fraud suit against National Medical Enterprises.

Legal Battles and Lawsuits

• Several legal cases are detailed:
• Idaho Psychologist Sued: An Idaho Falls psychologist is being sued by two former patients who claim he used hypnosis to convince them they were victims of childhood sexual abuse and satanic rituals, using 'ideomotor signaling' to guide their responses.
• Lawsuit Against Parents Dismissed: A case where a daughter sued her parents for alleged bizarre and unbelievable acts of sexual abuse and satanic ritual abuse was dismissed with prejudice after costing the parents over $80,000.
• Texas Psychiatrists Sue Ex-Patients: Ten Dallas psychiatrists, under federal investigation for fraud, have sued former patients who had previously sued the hospitals they were connected with.
• Canada Shreds Therapy Notes: In Canada, a sexual assault center has shredded therapy notes to prevent them from being used in court, a move contested by defense lawyers who claim such notes are needed for evidence reliability.
• 'False Memory' Insurance: The British Psychological Society is advising its members to take out insurance against negligence claims, including those related to planting false memories of child abuse.

Research and Expert Opinions

• AMA on Recovered Memories: The American Medical Association considers recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse to be of uncertain authenticity and subject to external verification, noting the potential for misapplication.
• Satanic Cult Abuse Study: A study conducted for the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect found no concrete evidence of organized satanic cults involved in molesting, torturing, or murdering children, though documented cases of individual perpetrators involved with satanism exist.
• Dr. Victor's Award: Jeffrey Victor, a member of the FMSF Advisory Board, won the H.L. Mencken Award for his book 'Satanic Panic: The Creation of a Contemporary Legend,' which examines the nature and consequences of the satanic cult scare.
• Dr. Ross's Report: Dr. Colin Ross submitted a report attempting to bridge the gap between recovered and false-memory camps, calling for scholarly discussion. However, the FMS Foundation newsletter's response, attributed to August Piper Jr., M.D., critiques some of Ross's comments as misleading and distorted, particularly regarding Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD).
• Richard Ofshe's Response: Richard Ofshe critiques Dr. Ross's assertion that the differences between recovered memory and ISSD groups are not significant, arguing that Ross fails to distinguish between group dynamics and the substance of their discussions.

Reader Comments and Perspectives

• Comment on Steven Lindsay's Column: A reader expresses concern that recovered memory therapy and child sexual abuse are being conflated, arguing they are separate issues that should be addressed independently. The reader also questions the claim of 'millions' of CSA survivors.
• Response from Dr. Tyroler: Dr. Tyroler criticizes Dr. Lindsay's 'prefatory remarks,' stating there is no relationship between CSA and MRT and that her comments were irrelevant. She defends her claim of millions of CSA survivors, citing various studies.
• A Mom's Plea: A reader shares a poignant story about a mother who died while fighting against the therapy that allegedly destroyed her relationship with her daughter, highlighting the emotional toll.
• University of Arkansas Program: A continuing education program at the University of Arkansas is noted for including methods for uncovering childhood wounds and recovering memory, without mentioning the AMA warning.
• Pennsylvania Mental Health Bill of Rights: A reader questions why the Mental Health Bill of Rights only applies to hospital patients, arguing that anyone diagnosed with a mental disorder should have the same rights, especially regarding informed consent.

FMS Foundation Operations

• Fundraising Success: The newsletter announces that the FMS Foundation has surpassed its $100,000 matching-offer challenge, raising over $150,000 from members and Friends.
• Rumors Addressed: The newsletter addresses rumors about the Foundation, including claims of imminent government action, being a front for the managed care industry, and suing therapists and writers. The Foundation denies involvement in lawsuits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently expresses skepticism and criticism towards Recovered Memory Therapy, viewing it as a potentially harmful and unscientific approach. The publication emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine childhood sexual abuse and 'recovered memories,' which it suggests may be implanted or influenced by therapy. The newsletter advocates for scientific rigor, informed consent, and accountability within the mental health field. It also highlights legal challenges and legislative efforts aimed at regulating or questioning the practices associated with recovered memories. The editorial stance is clearly aligned with those who question the validity and methodology of recovered memory claims, often framing it as a 'tragedy' or 'hysteria' that can shatter families.

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue Date: March 1995
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter focuses on the experiences and support networks surrounding False Memory Syndrome (FMS). It includes personal accounts, updates on FMSF activities, and information on how individuals can get involved and support the foundation's mission.

Personal Accounts and Support

The newsletter opens with a poignant reflection on the impact of FMS on families, urging readers to consider the long-term consequences of repressed memory accusations. A section titled "Retracting Therapists" highlights the experiences of therapists who are now sharing their perspectives, with one anecdote about a therapist attending a conference and encountering clients.

"A Newsletter of Our Own" discusses the desire among FMS retractors for a dedicated newsletter to network and share experiences. The author, Diana Anderson, takes on the task of creating this newsletter, inviting contributions.

"MAKE A DIFFERENCE" emphasizes the growth of the FMSF from a small group to over 15,000 members, showcasing how collective action has made an impact. It details various initiatives, including Grand Rounds on Forensic Psychiatric Issues at the Wisconsin Sanai Samaritan Medical Center, a radio call-in show in Colorado discussing False Memory Syndrome, and a special meeting for Missouri FMS families with legislators and health professionals. A separate meeting is planned for siblings of FMS individuals.

"Persistence Does Pay Off!!" reports on a legal victory in Washington where a therapist was charged with negligence and incompetence related to False Memory Syndrome and Satanic Ritual Abuse. The Paul Ingram "Right to a Fain Trial" organization in Spokane is also mentioned for its efforts to secure a pardon.

From Our Readers

Several personal letters and stories are featured:

• "The Meeting Was Fine": A letter from a mother and father whose daughter, after years of estrangement due to FMS accusations, has returned home for a visit, marking a potentially positive step in renewing their relationship.
• "Epidemic Proportions": A piece describing the widespread nature of FMS accusations and the personal toll it takes, referencing a case where a daughter falsely accused her father of rape after undergoing hypnosis.
• "Working Together": This section stresses the importance of unity and collective effort in combating the destructive force of FMS, urging individuals to focus on the greater good for all families.
• "Mothers' Stories": A call for mothers to share their stories of dealing with long-delayed incest charges, aiming to create a collection that offers support and understanding.
• "Stuck on a Limb": A mother's reflection on her son's situation, where he seems to be struggling with past accusations and the need to confront them.
• "Letter from a Grandchild": A poignant account from a 19-year-old granddaughter whose aunt accused her grandfather of abuse, detailing the family's struggle and the emotional impact of the accusations.
• A Granddaughter's Plea: Another letter from a granddaughter expressing concern for her grandparents, who are being controlled by her aunt's accusations, and advising readers to prioritize their own lives and families.
• A Dad's Experience: A father who is both a falsely accused parent and a retractor shares his journey through therapy and the impact of his son's accusations and his ex-wife's death.

FMSF Activities and Resources

FMSF Meetings: The newsletter includes an extensive list of FMSF meetings scheduled for March 1995 across the United States, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. These meetings are for families, retractors, and professionals.

Newsletter Availability: The FMSF Newsletter is available on audio tape for the blind. Contact information for the FMSF office is provided.

E-mail Access: Readers are encouraged to join the FMSF e-mail list by sending a message to [email protected].

Membership Information: Details on yearly FMSF membership, including rates for professionals and families, are provided, along with payment options.

"What IF?" Section: This section poses hypothetical scenarios to emphasize the importance of the FMS Foundation's existence and encourages reader support.

FMS Foundation Information: The newsletter provides the FMS Foundation's address, phone number, and lists its Executive Director, Pamela Freyd, Ph.D. It also includes a comprehensive list of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board members, featuring numerous psychologists and medical professionals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the devastating impact of False Memory Syndrome on individuals and families, the importance of support networks and shared experiences, and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and provide resources. The editorial stance is clearly supportive of those affected by FMS, advocating for understanding, validation of experiences, and collective action to combat the phenomenon. There is a strong emphasis on the power of community and shared stories in healing and advocacy.