False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 08 No 08 - 1999 dec

Magazine Overview

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated December 1999, Volume 8, Number 8, focuses on the potential decline of the recovered memory movement. The editorial expresses cautious optimism that the "memory wars" are perceived as over, though acknowledging the ongoing impact on families. It highlights significant license actions against key figures in the recovered memory movement, such as psychiatrist Bennett Braun, M.D., and psychologist Renee Fredrickson, as evidence of the movement's waning influence.

The Demise of the Recovered Memory Movement

The newsletter posits that the recovered memory movement is becoming increasingly marginal. This is attributed to several factors, including the surrender of Bennett Braun's medical license for two years and a five-year probation, as well as similar disciplinary actions against Renee Fredrickson. The article notes that Braun, who was instrumental in organizing early conferences on Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) and Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA), has faced multiple lawsuits and no longer holds a position at Rush Presbyterian Hospital.

The Wilkomirski Memoir Controversy

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to the withdrawal of Binjamin Wilkomirski's memoir, "Fragments," which claimed to recount his experiences as a Jewish orphan in Nazi concentration camps. The publisher, Schocken Books, withdrew the book after evidence emerged suggesting Wilkomirski had spent the war years in Switzerland. The article details how Wilkomirski's memories were reportedly developed through a therapeutic process with a close friend who was a therapist. A twist in the story is revealed: a Laura Grabowski, who claimed to have known Wilkomirski at Auschwitz, is identified as Lauren Stratford, author of "Satan's Underground," a book previously exposed as fraudulent.

Critiques of Memory and Therapy

The newsletter explores the broader implications of such cases, questioning the gullibility of publishers and the public. It argues that people may suspend critical judgment when a story aligns with prevailing cultural narratives, particularly in a "victim-oriented" culture. The issue also features a book review of "Therapy's Delusions: The Myth of the Unconscious and the Exploitation of Today's Walking Worried" by Ethan Watters and Richard Ofshe. The review criticizes psychodynamic therapy, tracing its roots to Freudian theory and highlighting its potential for exploitation, speculative reasoning, and a lack of empirical grounding. The review contrasts this with the potential usefulness of cognitive-behavioral approaches.

International Perspectives and Legal Actions

The newsletter includes reports on legal and disciplinary actions in various locations. In France, an action is taking shape with the ADFI and UNADFI groups supporting families accused of abuse, noting a pattern of accusations occurring around December. In the UK, a report suggests the government may legitimize exorcism therapy for mental illness. Updates are provided on legal cases in the U.S., including the dismissal of a lawsuit for legal fees against former workers at Spring Shadows Glen hospital and the amendment of Renee Fredrickson's psychology license. The case of Kenneth J. Olson, a psychologist whose license was revoked for performing an exorcism, is also mentioned.

Continuing Education and Fundraising

Under "Continuing Education Watch," the newsletter notes that the recovered memory problem is still considered relevant, with presentations on related topics scheduled. It also highlights a decision by the American Psychological Association's Continuing Professional Education Committee to exclude Thought Field Therapy from continuing education credit for psychologists. A fundraising appeal is included, emphasizing the ongoing need for donations to support the FMS Foundation's work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently adopts a critical stance towards the recovered memory movement and related therapeutic practices, particularly psychodynamic therapy and SRA allegations. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims of recovered memories, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence, corroboration, and critical thinking. The newsletter aims to educate its readers about what it perceives as the dangers and flaws within these therapeutic and belief systems, advocating for a more grounded and evidence-based approach to mental health issues. The recurring theme is the debunking of what the foundation views as harmful or fraudulent aspects of the recovered memory and SRA phenomena, and the promotion of scientific and rational perspectives.

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated December 1999, Volume 8, Number 8, focuses on the critical question of how common false accusations are, particularly within the context of recovered memory syndrome. The publication aims to provide information and support to individuals and families affected by this phenomenon.

How Common are False Accusations?

The lead article, authored by FMSF Staff, directly addresses the frequency of false accusations. It references claims by Dr. Charles Whitfield and Dr. Judith Herman regarding the percentage of innocent individuals in the False Memory Syndrome (FMS) debate. The article cites a study from a midwestern city over a 10-year period that found 41% of rape reports to be false, serving functions like alibis, revenge, and sympathy. Furthermore, a Department of Justice report on DNA analysis revealed that since 1989, approximately 25% of sexual assault cases referred to the FBI have excluded the primary suspect based on DNA testing. Attorney Barry Scheck is quoted, identifying mistaken eyewitness identification as a primary cause for false charges, particularly when the identification comes from a victim, leading police and prosecutors to focus on the wrong person. The article raises the question of what these findings imply for cases where the only evidence is a recovered memory.

Legal Cases and Personal Accounts

Several sections detail legal cases and personal experiences related to false memory syndrome.

LeFave Case

The issue begins with an update on the LeFave case, where LeFave, her mother Violet Amirault, and brother Gerald Amirault were convicted in 1987. LeFave, after serving eight years, is released and drops her quest to clear her name, though efforts will be made to revise Gerald's sentence. LeFave expresses the sacrifice of her fight for what she believed was right and her desire for a not-guilty verdict or a new trial.

Martinelli v Bridgeport Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation

A U.S. District Court overturned a million-dollar judgment in a sex abuse case involving Frank Marinelli. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ordered a new trial, finding that the trial judge erred in her instructions to the jury regarding the statute of limitations and the burden of proof for repressed memories.

"Travesty of Justice" Editorial

A quote from an editorial in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly is included, referencing a decision to send Cheryl Amirault back to prison, with Thomas Jefferson's quote about liberty and order.

"My Sister and FMS" by Allen Feld

Allen Feld, Director of Continuing Education for the FMS Foundation, shares a personal account of his sister's accusation of incest against their father, stemming from recovered memories during therapy. He details the family's distress, his sister's subsequent psychotic episode, and her eventual retraction of the accusation against their father. Feld, a mental health professional, expresses skepticism about the recovered memory movement and the potential for therapists to create or reinforce false memories, emphasizing the importance of corroborating evidence and the principle of 'first, do no harm.'

Reader Letters

Several letters from readers offer diverse perspectives:

• "What Do You Tell Grandchildren?" by Another Mom: This letter poses a question about how parents explain the return of accused family members to their children, who have been led to believe negative things about their grandparents.
• "Contact between Grandchildren" by Another Mom: This letter describes a situation where a daughter refuses contact between her 17-year-old daughter and the accuser's 17-year-old daughter, fearing 'contamination' of the relationship with the accused grandfather.
• "Could You Accept a Returner?" by A Mom: This mother shares her experience of accepting her daughter back after she had developed false memories, emphasizing the support received from the FMSF staff and her joy in having her daughter back in her life, despite the sister's estrangement.
• "In the Event" by A Single Mom: This letter recounts the recent death of her husband and her ongoing relationship with her daughter who developed false memories. She plans to give her daughter a letter of forgiveness from her deceased father when the time is right.
• "We Do Not Feel the Same" by A Mom: This letter describes a strained relationship with a daughter who has rejoined the family but has not recanted her accusations, highlighting the positive relationship with her grandchildren.
• "No Relief" by A Dad: This letter expresses that while some individuals implanting false memories are being held responsible, there is still little relief for falsely accused families or healing for the accusing children.
• "It's Still Happening" by A Mom and Dad: This letter details the destruction of their family after their daughter wrote a letter stating she would never see them again and would not allow contact with grandchildren until they were 18.

A Puzzle: Therapy and Memory

Allen Feld's article "A Puzzle" explores the dynamics of therapy sessions where a client discusses a third party. He argues that therapists are more likely to learn about the client's perceptions and biases than about the absent third party, especially without direct interaction. Feld emphasizes the potential for therapists to influence a client's narrative and the dangers of drawing conclusions about individuals who have not been interviewed. He questions how far-reaching effects can arise from uncorroborated conclusions, particularly when they enter the public arena and courts.

Other Features

• "You Are Forgiven": A poem by a friend of a family who lost their daughter to memories.
• "A Thank You to FMSF Families": A letter from parents expressing gratitude to the FMS Foundation and other parents for their support in dealing with their daughter's false memories.
• "What to give your child for Christmas.": A brief note about sending a charitable donation in the name of an accusing daughter.
• Correction: Clarification regarding a description of August Piper, M.D.
• "How Can Someone Believe in False Memories?": Quotes from Christopher Barden (lawyer) and Martha Hurt (retractor) discussing the nature of belief in false memories and the influence of therapists.
• "A Confrontation": Martha Hurt's account of her experience in therapy where she was prompted to recount memories.

Special Opportunity for Ontario Families to Make a Difference

This section informs readers about the opportunity to provide input on the review of Ontario's Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), which regulates health professions but not social workers. It encourages submissions to assess the Act's effectiveness in protecting the public, providing quality care, and ensuring accountability.

Conferences

Announcements for two upcoming conferences are included: "False Memory Syndrome: Current Perspective" sponsored by New York Medical College, and "Memory and Reality: Return to Reason" sponsored by the FMS Foundation. Both are scheduled for April 1999 in Westchester, New York, and feature prominent speakers in the field.

Bulletin Board

A comprehensive list of contacts and meeting information for FMSF chapters across the United States and internationally is provided, along with deadlines for newsletter submissions.

Books and Websites

• "Recovered Memories of Child Sexual Abuse: Psychological, Social and Legal Perspectives on a Contemporary Mental Health Controversy": A book edited by Sheila Taub, J.D., is listed with its ISBN and authors.
• Web Sites of Interest: A list of relevant websites is provided, including StopBadTherapy.com, forensicptsd.com, afma.asn.au, bfms.org.uk, geocities.com/retractors, geocities.com/~therapyletters/index.htm, and chordate.com/therapys_delusions/index.html.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the pervasive issue of false memory syndrome, its impact on individuals and families, and the legal and psychological ramifications. The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently presents a critical perspective on recovered memory therapy, highlighting cases of alleged false accusations and advocating for a more evidence-based and cautious approach to memory retrieval in therapeutic settings. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards the uncorroborated claims generated by some forms of therapy and a strong advocacy for the rights and well-being of those falsely accused. The newsletter serves as a platform for sharing personal stories, legal updates, and research that questions the validity and methodology of recovered memory practices.