False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 04 No 04 - 1995 april

Magazine Overview

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated April 3, 1995, delves deeply into the controversial topic of recovered memories, presenting a multifaceted view that includes scientific, clinical, legal, and personal perspectives. The newsletter aims to provide information and foster discussion on the complexities surrounding repressed memories, false memories, and their impact on individuals and families.

The Recovered Memory Controversy: A Scientific and Clinical Debate

The newsletter opens with a quote from The Sydney Morning Herald highlighting the 'backlash' sentiment against the current debate on recovered memories, suggesting that therapists and child abuse workers are adamant about the reality of the detailed stories they hear. This sets the stage for a report on a KUMC meeting (March 31-April 1) that brought together leading experts on both sides of the recovered memory debate. Presentations by figures like James Garbarino, Martin Seligman, Paul McHugh, Elizabeth Loftus, David Holmes, Linda Williams, Bessel van der Kolk, and Kenneth Pope offered scientific data supporting concerns about the risks of some recovered memory therapies and indicated the widespread nature of the problem.

A central theme discussed is the concept of 'repression,' with David Holmes emphasizing that since repression cannot be scientifically disproven, the burden of proof lies with those who claim its existence. Holmes presented a review of 70 years of research, noting that while laboratory studies failed to find evidence of repression, proponents have pointed to studies of traumatic amnesia in war veterans. However, the newsletter points out flaws in these studies, including the lack of ruling out biological causes and the use of amytal interviews.

Richard Kluft, a psychiatrist, is quoted stating that impartiality is difficult, as one faces attacks from both sides. He noted that a group of professionals booed him for suggesting that therapists shouldn't always believe patient memories, indicating that scientific information has bypassed some therapists.

Despite agreement on basic points like the reality of sexual abuse, the possibility of false memories, and the reconstructive nature of memory, the controversy persists. John Briere suggested the issue cannot be solved on a scientific basis, implying a divide between those who rely on science and those who rely on conviction.

Mary Harvey's point that repression and dissociation are not synonymous is mentioned, though the distinction is not elaborated upon. The newsletter notes a lack of clarity and an unanswered question regarding operational distinctions between these terms during a Q&A session.

Personal Accounts and Therapist Negligence

Page 3 features a 'Retractor's Response' from Diana Halbrooks, who shares her harrowing experience with false memories of satanic ritual abuse. She directly challenges Colin A. Ross's assertion that false memories are a 'minor component of the problem,' detailing how these memories led to a complete breakdown in her family relationships and personal functioning. Halbrooks recounts being diagnosed with MPD and the ongoing belief of her former therapist in her false memories. She emphasizes the devastating impact of such experiences and the importance of listening to patients' experiences.

A Texas District Court jury found therapist Michael Moore guilty of negligence in a case brought by Diana Halbrooks, awarding her damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and mental anguish. The complaint alleged that Moore convinced Halbrooks she suffered from MPD and had been a victim of childhood sexual abuse, leading to her dependency and a deterioration of her mental state.

Legal Cases and Legislative Efforts

The newsletter covers several legal cases related to recovered memories. The 'Legal Corner' section details:

• Former patient sues her therapist (March 9, 1995): Patricia Davison Rice sued therapist Regina S. Gamage for evoking false memories of 'satanic, ritualistic abuse,' which allegedly led to a psychotic-like state and a fatal car accident.
• Allegations of decades-old sex abuse based on 'repressed' memories (March 6, 1995): A sensational case where a woman accused her father of rape and involvement in a pornographic ring was dismissed voluntarily. The judge's decision to bar certain testimony was a key factor.
• Woman sues therapists over 500 personalities claim (March 8, 1995): Lynn Carl filed a lawsuit seeking $18 million from psychologist Judith Peterson and others, claiming they convinced her she was a Satan worshiper who had repressed memories of ritual abuse.
• Couple convicted of raping grandchildren seek retrial (March 16, 1995): Raymond and Shirley Souza, convicted of raping their grandchildren, appealed their case, arguing they were not tried as separate individuals and that a 'recovered memory' defense was not allowed.
• Fells Acre Case (March 14, 1995): An update on the case of Violet Amirault and her family, convicted of rape and sexual assault on children at their day care. Violet and her daughter were denied parole for not taking responsibility for their alleged crimes.

Additionally, the newsletter reports on legislative efforts, noting the American Psychological Association's opposition to legislation that creates bureaucracy and barriers to consumer access to mental health services.

Media and Research

The issue highlights upcoming media coverage, including a 4-hour PBS FRONTLINE documentary on repressed memory and the 'recovery movement.' It also lists numerous new articles and books available through FMSF, offering critical perspectives on recovered memories, dissociative identity disorder, and related topics.

Family Impact and Reconciliation

Harold Lief and Janet Fetkewicz discuss the profound impact of recovered memory accusations on families, noting that between 50 to 90 people can be affected. They describe the initial 'emergency emotions' of confusion, anger, and betrayal, and the subsequent need for 'welfare emotions' like love and hope for reconciliation. The process of trust and healthy relationships is not restored overnight. The newsletter acknowledges that while some families may emerge stronger, others may be split by the accusations. It also touches upon the concerns of retractors and the challenges they face in reintegrating with their families.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently adopts a critical stance towards the recovered memory movement, emphasizing the need for scientific evidence and cautioning against therapies that may lead to false memories. The editorial focus is on providing information that challenges the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, highlighting legal cases, scientific critiques, and personal accounts of those who have experienced negative consequences. The newsletter advocates for a balanced approach that acknowledges the reality of abuse while scrutinizing the methods and claims of recovered memory proponents. There is a clear emphasis on the potential for harm caused by certain therapeutic practices and the importance of due process and scientific validity in legal and clinical settings.

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, April 1995 issue, focuses on the complex aftermath of recovered memory therapy, particularly for individuals who retract their memories and their families. The publication aims to provide support and information regarding the challenges of reconciliation, the impact of therapy, and the societal implications of false memory accusations.

Retractors and Family Reconciliation

The lead article, "Retractors have to deal with the aftereffects of recovered memory therapy in three areas: relational, psychological, and practical." It highlights the profound changes in personal relationships, the potential loss of support from survivor groups, and the feelings of lost credibility and self-doubt experienced by retractors. The article emphasizes that retractors are vulnerable and may experience distress, anxiety, and shame. It also notes the practical challenges of making up for lost time, money, and career.

For families, the newsletter stresses that there is no single rule for reconciliation, as each family has unique dynamics. However, it identifies effective communication as the essential starting point. Families are encouraged to foster an environment where individuals can express their feelings, even if confused, and where listening to others' feelings is prioritized over assumptions. The article concludes that families can emerge stronger from this experience if they are willing to make the effort, framing reconciliation as a process, not an event.

Personal Narratives

"Reunification: My Personal Narrative" from a son, 8th grade

This narrative recounts a young boy's experience of reconnecting with his maternal grandparents after a seven-year estrangement. The rift occurred when his mother entered therapy and began making accusations of sexual abuse against her parents. The son describes his initial fear and anxiety about meeting them, followed by a warm reception with holiday treats. He shares how the grandparents explained their attempts to connect and their feelings of rejection. The narrative details the gradual process of rebuilding the relationship through letters and visits, including shared family holidays and activities like fishing. The author reflects on the long and hard road to reunification and expresses gladness that the family is together again.

"From the parents of a restored family"

This account details a family's experience after their youngest daughter recanted her accusations of abuse. The parents describe the shock and devastation upon receiving the letter in September 1992. They sought professional help and were advised not to communicate directly with their daughter initially. They also consulted a trial attorney to refute the accusations. Their attempts to inform the daughter's therapist about the inaccuracy of the diagnosis were met with refusal. The daughter and her husband moved away, but later sought reconciliation. The parents emphasized that reconciliation required a complete understanding that no abuse had occurred. They recount a meeting with their daughter and her new therapist, where plausible explanations for her fears were discussed. The daughter eventually expressed certainty that she had not been abused and asked for forgiveness. The parents highlight that their daughter's doubts grew after moving and experiencing less stress, and that their calm, non-angry response to her accusations, contrary to what her first therapist advised, also contributed to her change of heart. The family is working towards normalcy, with the daughter expressing remorse and gratitude for support.

"Trying to cope after Gloria Steinem's HBO video"

This narrative from a mother describes the distress caused by a 1993 HBO video narrated by Gloria Steinem, which featured her daughter and implied the parents' guilt in sexual abuse. The video showed the daughter under sodium amytal and in group therapy, portraying her as a "frightening ugly 'alter'" and culminating in her graduation, which the parents were told they could not attend. The mother details how her husband became ill and was diagnosed with cancer shortly after the video aired, and he died in May 1994. She expresses gratitude that her daughter returned home before his death and that he was able to directly state, "I never abused you." The daughter claimed she had never accused him. The mother notes that the HBO tape was used as an instructional tool in Great Britain, presented by her daughter's therapist who suggested the daughter believed her father abused her. The mother expresses her frustration with Gloria Steinem and others who make accusations but do not take ethical responsibility. She also discusses the legal implications and the difficulty of finding truth when faced with silence from professionals and organizations.

Letters and Cards

Letter from a Mom

A mother writes about her daughter's accusations of sexual abuse against her husband and herself as an enabler in September 1992. Encouraged by retractors at a conference, she sent letters to her daughter, ending with love. After three months of no response, she received Christmas and birthday cards, followed by a letter indicating she was "tired of maintaining a wall of silence." The daughter proposed a meeting with her therapist present, which the parents agreed to. The mother expresses hope for family unity and emphasizes the importance of positive thinking, not demanding apologies or explanations.

Letter from a Mother and Grandmother

This letter details the ongoing struggle of a mother whose daughter developed multiple personality disorder and accused her parents of abuse. The daughter's social worker therapist initiated a separation from the family and would not respond to their attempts to communicate or provide family history. The parents recount their daughter's accusations, including visions of abuse and a skull and blood, and their attempts to refute them, including writing to the HBO journalist and psychiatrist involved. The mother expresses her grief over losing her husband and her daughter, and her concern about the future impact of the HBO video on other families.

FMSF Meetings and Information

The newsletter includes a comprehensive list of FMSF meetings across the United States and Canada for April 1995, along with contact information for organizers. It also lists the annual meeting in Toronto on April 22, 1995. Information is provided for Australia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Foundation Information

Details about the FMS Foundation are provided, including its status as a qualified 501(c)3 corporation, its principal offices in Philadelphia, and its governance by a Board of Directors. The newsletter clarifies that the Foundation has no affiliates and that no other entity is authorized to speak for it without prior written approval. Membership dues and contributions are to be forwarded to the Foundation. Subscription rates for the FMSF Newsletter are listed: $30 for one year in the USA, $10 for students, $35 for Canada, and $40 for foreign countries. Single issue price is $3 plus postage.

The "What If?" section poses hypothetical scenarios about the potential consequences if the FMS Foundation ceased to exist, emphasizing the importance of its role in providing information and support. Readers are urged to support the Foundation.

Scientific and Professional Advisory Board

A list of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board members as of April 1, 1995, is included. This extensive list comprises professionals from various fields, including psychology, psychiatry, and medicine, from institutions across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the devastating impact of recovered memory therapy, the challenges and complexities of family reconciliation after accusations of abuse, and the role of therapists and media in these processes. The FMS Foundation's stance is clearly one of support for individuals and families affected by false memory accusations, advocating for responsible therapy and journalism, and emphasizing the importance of accurate information and ethical conduct within the professional community. The newsletter aims to provide a platform for personal narratives and to raise awareness about the potential harms of certain therapeutic practices.