False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 09 No 04 - 2000 julyaug

Magazine Overview

Title: FALSE MEMORY SYNDROME FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER
Issue: Vol. 9 NO. 4
Date: JULY/AUGUST 2000
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Country: USA

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation Newsletter addresses the evolving landscape of recovered memory, the therapeutic practices surrounding it, and related legal and societal issues. The editorial board notes significant shifts since 1992, with increased scrutiny and discrediting of the recovered memory movement, evidenced by appellate decisions and a new statement from the American Psychiatric Association.

Key Articles and Features

"What is the situation now? Are therapists still doing memory recovery work?"

The lead article reflects on the current state of recovered memory work, noting that while it's tempting to declare the movement over, important developments continue to challenge its tenets. Several new papers are highlighted, including a study published in *Psychological Medicine* comparing abused and non-abused same-sex twins, which found no difference in later psychiatric problems attributable solely to abuse. Another study in the *Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry* demonstrated inconsistencies in the recall of adolescent experiences by adults. Research on the effectiveness of combined psychotherapy and medication for chronic depression is also discussed, showing greater efficacy than either treatment alone. The article also references a *Journal of the American Medical Association* review of Joan Acocella's *Creating Hysteria* and a *New York Times* story about a veteran's false confession to atrocities, examining the psychological reasons behind such fabrications.

FMS Foundation Address Change and Office Schedule

The newsletter announces the FMS Foundation's move to a new address at 1955 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-5766, effective July. The new location offers more space, lower rent, and proximity to a specialized library. The office schedule will be reduced to three days a week in July, with telephones monitored daily.

American Psychiatric Association Issues New Fact Sheet

The American Psychiatric Association has updated its guidelines on "Therapies Focused on Memories of Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse." The new guidelines remove references to "bodily sensations" and "lack of conscious awareness" and advise psychiatrists to refrain from making public statements about the historical accuracy of uncorroborated patient memories. The fact sheet also states that no specific symptom profile has been identified that necessarily correlates with abuse experiences.

"The Altering of Reported Experiences" (Review)

This section reviews a study by Daniel Offer, M.D., et al. published in the *Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry*. The study found significant differences between adult memories of adolescence and what was reported during adolescence, suggesting that memory may meld with current societal expectations. The authors emphasize the need for external corroboration to establish the truth of autobiographical memory.

"The Story Behind a Soldier's Story" (Michael Moss, *New York Times*)

This piece discusses a *New York Times* article about Edward Daily, who claimed to have participated in atrocities during the Korean War. Army records contradicted his claims, showing he was not in the Seventh Cavalry Regiment at No Gun Ri at the time. Explanations for his false confession include the "victim-hero thing" and a desire for the limelight. The article notes that some veterans who heard his stories came to believe them, illustrating how shared narratives can shape historical accounts.

"Early Sexual Abuse and Lifetime Psychopathology: A Co-Twin-Control Study" (S. Dinwiddie et al.)

A review of a study published in *Psychological Medicine* that investigated the link between childhood sexual abuse and lifetime psychopathology using twin pairs. The study found that while childhood sexual abuse is a risk factor, the relationship is complex and influenced by family dysfunction and genetics. The risk for psychiatric illness was highest when both twins were abused.

"A Comparison of Nefazodone, the Cognitive Behavioral-Analysis System of Psychotherapy, and Their Combination for the Treatment of Chronic Depression" (Martin B. Keller et al.)

This article summarizes a study from the *New England Journal of Medicine* comparing the effectiveness of nefazodone (an antidepressant), cognitive behavioral-analysis psychotherapy, and a combination of both for chronic depression. The combined treatment group showed a significantly higher rate of response (73%) compared to the medication-only (48%) and psychotherapy-only (48%) groups.

"The Empty Couch" (Joan Acocella, *The New Yorker*)

A review of books on the fate of psychotherapy, noting a historical pendulum swing between organic and psychological views of mental disorder. The review highlights how managed care has led to a decline in psychotherapy in hospitals, with a rise in outpatient treatment. CHAMPUS, however, found outpatient psychotherapy to be cost-effective.

"Should the Expression of Emotional Memories Be a Goal of Therapy?" (Jill Littrell, Harvard Mental Health Letter)

This report discusses experiments suggesting that expressing emotions can enhance future reactions. It also notes that exposure to trauma may sometimes lead to benefits, but emphasizes the need for informed consent regarding potential side effects of such therapies.

"Three-year Follow-up of a Randomized Controlled Trial: Psychological Debriefing for Road Traffic Accident Victims" (Mayou, R.A. & Ehlers, A.)

A study published in the *British Journal of Psychiatry* found that one-hour debriefing sessions for road traffic accident victims were ineffective and had adverse long-term effects, leading to increased emotional stress and physical symptoms compared to those who did not receive debriefing.

"A Sad Example Shows Need for Safe and Effective Therapies"

This section details the tragic death of 10-year-old Candice Newmaker during a "rebirthing" therapy session in Evergreen, Colorado. The girl suffocated while therapists attempted to simulate birth contractions. The article highlights the lack of scientific support for rebirthing and the legal charges brought against the unlicensed therapists involved.

"Denial" (Arnold Wesker's Play)

This brief mention notes the opening of Arnold Wesker's play "Denial" in England, which deals with false memory syndrome and has received positive reviews. The play explores a woman's accusations against her father and mother regarding sexual abuse.

"Multiple Personality Disorder and Psychic Mediums" (Loren Pankratz)

This article explores the historical difference in how Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) was viewed in England (as psychic mediumship) versus the United States. It references Harry Price's investigations into alleged psychic mediums, concluding that many exhibited behaviors that could be attributed to acting rather than genuine psychic phenomena.

"More Thoughts on Informed Consent (Part 2)" (Allen Feld)

Allen Feld continues his discussion on informed consent, emphasizing its importance as a collaborative and interactive process. He details essential elements for a written statement, including the therapist's theoretical orientation, prior experiences, outcome studies, and potential risks. He stresses that informed consent should not be handled casually or bureaucratically.

Legal Corner

• This section includes several legal case summaries:
• Carlson et al. v Zirkel et al.: A lawsuit where Steven D. Carlson settled with therapists, alleging failure to obtain informed consent and implantation of false memories of childhood sexual abuse.
• Sheppard Pratt Sued for $5 Million in 'Repressed Memory' Challenge: Regina C. Moran filed a suit alleging misdiagnosis and treatment for repressed memories, leading her to believe she had been sexually abused.
• California Therapist Loses License: Linda Meads had her license revoked after a psychiatric examination found she suffered from a delusional disorder, believing a cult was trying to kill her and involved prominent people.
• Missouri Psychologist Disciplined: Thomas Lipsitz, Ph.D., was placed on probation for his involvement in the Geraldine Lamb affair, including seeing Lamb's patients for insurance purposes and improperly supervising their treatment.
• Grandparents' Visitation Rights Curbed (Troxel v Granville): The U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Washington state law granting broad grandparent visitation rights.
• Wenatchee update: Carol and Mark Doggett, convicted of raping their children, will not face a new trial. Other cases involving alleged sexual abuse and miscarriages of justice are also mentioned.

"Once a Patient, Forever a Patient" (Jaye D. Bartha)

This personal account describes the lingering effects of repressed memory therapy, even years after treatment. The author recounts an incident where colleagues, concerned about her emotional well-being, requested a police welfare check that involved a locksmith breaking into her home, highlighting the author's feeling of invasion and lack of privacy.

"Speaking the Language of Faith: Educating the Faith-Based Recovered Memory Movement" (Paul Simpson, Ed.D.)

This article discusses the challenge of addressing false memory syndrome within faith-based communities. It proposes strategies for educating ministers and denominations, including providing educational seminars, customizing materials, and encouraging ministers to act as mediators and educate their congregations about the realities of FMS.

"The Greater Good" (Reinder Van Til)

An excerpt from the president's letter of the Illinois False Memory Society, expressing cautious joy for those reunited with their "lost children" and emphasizing the ongoing need for support and solidarity within the FMS community. It highlights the effectiveness of FMS societies in exposing bad therapy and educating the public.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes a critical stance towards recovered memory therapy, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor, evidence-based practices, and informed consent. It highlights research that challenges the validity of recovered memories and exposes potentially harmful therapeutic practices. The FMS Foundation positions itself as an advocate for victims of potentially flawed therapeutic interventions and aims to educate the public and professionals about the complexities and dangers associated with certain forms of psychotherapy, particularly those involving memory recovery. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a strong advocacy for ethical and scientifically sound therapeutic approaches.

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue: Vol. 9 No. 4
Date: July/August 2000
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Country: USA
ISSN: 1069-0484

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter delves into the controversial topic of recovered memory and false accusations, presenting personal narratives and resources for those affected. The publication aims to raise awareness about the potential harms of certain therapeutic practices and to offer support to individuals and families experiencing distress due to these issues.

Key Articles and Personal Accounts

"You Must Have Been Abused Virus!"

This section begins with a poignant letter from a mother whose daughter's "hard drive" was allegedly "reprogrammed" by "Recovered Memory" therapy. The mother describes how good memories were replaced with false ones, leading to estrangement from her daughter. She likens the therapy to a computer virus that wipes out genuine files and installs corrupted ones, emphasizing the immense emotional cost to families.

"It Can Get Worse"

A father recounts the devastating impact of false memories on his family. His two daughters cut off communication in the early 1990s, accusing a deceased grandparent of sexual abuse. This led to the alienation of his son, who later committed suicide. The father expresses his grief and the profound impact of these events, noting that even though his son had no memory of mistreatment, he believed "something must have happened."

"Giving Hope"

This letter offers a message of hope from a father who has reconciled with his daughter after two and a half years of estrangement. His daughter, who had undergone therapy, apologized for the "crap" he had to go through six years prior, acknowledging the impact of her "original statements about abuse."

"It Worked"

A mother shares her success in reconnecting with her daughter after a six-year period of estrangement. Her daughter had accused her of molestation twenty years prior, leading to a psychologist advising the daughter to cut off all communication. The mother used information from the FMSF newsletter to develop a patient plan for reunification.

"A Tragic Story" by Claudette Grieb

This is a detailed account from a mother whose daughter, Jackie, suffered from mood changes, depression, and pelvic pain, leading to a diagnosis of endometriosis. Jackie distrusted male doctors and pursued alternative health remedies. She became involved with drugs, got tattooed, and associated with "strange people." Her therapist, who specialized in working with single welfare moms, allegedly failed to address Jackie's drug problems or consider her family history of schizophrenia. The therapist focused on "repressed memories of sexual abuse." Jackie later raised allegations of childhood sexual abuse against her father and then against her mother. By August 1997, she divorced herself from the family, made death threats, and refused contact. Her marriage broke down, and her son moved away. In June 1998, after her lesbian lover announced she was leaving, Jackie killed her two-year-old daughter, Dagmar, by hanging, and then hanged herself. The mother describes the desecration of the caskets and the disappearance of her daughter's estate, highlighting the profound grief and injustice she experienced.

"Coping"

A mother shares how she coped with the loss of a child by assuring the grandmothers that she would not let the situation ruin her life or affect her relationship with her other children. She finds strength in her career and in sharing her story, which encourages others to do the same.

"New Perspective"

This brief account describes a daughter's positive response to attending a convention after initially being reluctant. She realized she was a victim of bad therapy and is now ready to campaign against those who harmed her.

Conference and Resource Information

Important Conference About Child and Adult False Accusations

An announcement for the Ninth International Conference on Child Abuse Allegations: 2000 and Beyond, to be held September 14-16, 2000, in Kansas City, Missouri. Speakers include prominent figures in the field such as Maggie Bruck, Elizabeth Loftus, and Richard Ofshe.

Crime Victims Compensation Program

Information is provided that the crime victims compensation program will not authorize services for therapies focusing on the recovery of repressed memory or memories of physically impossible or unverified acts occurring prior to the age of two.

FMSF Newsletter Archives and Websites

Information on how to access back issues of the FMSF Newsletter online and a list of relevant websites, including www.StopBadTherapy.com, www.FMSFonline.org, and sites for various international False Memory Associations.

Australian Psychological Society Guidelines

An announcement about the Australian Psychological Society's revised ethical "Guidelines Relating to Recovered Memories."

Estate Planning

Information for those interested in including the FMSF in their estate planning.

Bulletin Board

The Bulletin Board lists contacts and meeting information for FMSF chapters and affiliated groups across the United States, Canada, Australia, Israel, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. It provides names, phone numbers, and meeting schedules for local support groups.

FMS Foundation Information

This section includes the copyright notice, contact information for the FMS Foundation, and details about its Scientific and Professional Advisory Board as of July 1, 2000. It also explains the Foundation's status as a 501(c)3 corporation and its policies regarding affiliates and speaking on behalf of the Foundation. Subscription rates for the FMSF Newsletter are provided, along with yearly membership information for professionals and families.

Video Tape Order Form

An order form is included for a video tape titled "When Memories Lie...... The Rutherford Family Speaks to Families," available for $10.00 per tape, with additional shipping charges for foreign orders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the devastating consequences of "recovered memory" therapy, the impact of false accusations on families, and the importance of critical evaluation of therapeutic practices. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the personal stories and the information provided, is highly critical of recovered memory therapy and its potential to cause severe psychological harm and family destruction. The newsletter serves as a platform for sharing experiences, raising awareness, and offering support to those who have been negatively affected by these phenomena.