False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 11 No 03 - 2002 mayjune

Magazine Overview

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) Newsletter, dated May/June 2002, Vol. 11 No. 3, addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding recovered memories, particularly in the context of clergy abuse scandals. The newsletter highlights concerns about the media's and some professionals' uncritical acceptance of recovered memory claims, contrasting this with scientific perspectives on memory reliability. It also promotes an upcoming conference on family reconciliation and provides updates on legal cases.

Editorial and Main Themes

The editorial, written by "Pamela," expresses concern over the resurgence of misinformation about memory and suggestibility, noting an "explosion of articles relating to clergy abuse." The editor urges readers to write to reporters who may benefit from a "crash course in the issues surrounding the reliability of recovered memories." The FMSF Advisory Board's "Statement on Recovered Memories" is reprinted, emphasizing that "there is no reliable means of distinguishing a true memory from an illusory one other than by external confirmation" and that "evidence does not support the existence of 'robust repression.'" The editorial also touches upon the Wilkomirski case as an example of a fabricated Holocaust memoir, questioning how such a story gained traction.

Mark Pendergrast, author of "Victims of Memory," contributes two pieces. In "The Bloated Corpse," he expresses pessimism about the ongoing practices related to therapy focused on recovering memories, likening the movement's fear of open discussion to perpetrators' behavior. He notes that while active practice of recovered memory therapy may have subsided, the underlying mindset persists, with some therapists still believing in this "pseudo-science." Pendergrast also reviews Blake Eskin's book "A Life in Pieces: The Making and Unmaking of Binjamin Wilkomirski," detailing how Wilkomirski, a Swiss-born child named Bruno Grosjean, fabricated a Holocaust survivor identity. Pendergrast, who was involved in discrediting Wilkomirski's claims, discusses the role of therapy in reconstructing memories and the tendency for people to create memories that explain life's problems, garnering sympathy.

Allen Feld's column, "Responsibility," explores the concept of therapists' responsibility not only to their patients but also to third parties who might be falsely accused. He argues that therapists engaging in recovered memory therapy often deny responsibility to the accused, even without corroboration, and that legal recourse is often the only path for accused families.

Adriaan Mak's article, "Landmark Decisions in the Netherlands," reports on two court rulings where therapists were held accountable for encouraging false memories. In one case, a therapist was ordered to pay 19,000 Euro to parents falsely accused of abuse, establishing a duty of care to third parties. Mak notes that these verdicts serve as a warning to therapists.

Personal Accounts and Case Updates

Carol Diament shares her personal story in "Betrayed," detailing how seeking marriage counseling led her to believe she had been a victim of incest and satanic ritual abuse, ultimately destroying her marriage and family relationships. She describes the process of being made dependent on her therapist and the harmful effects of intensive therapy and the book "The Courage to Heal."

The "Legal Corner" section provides updates on several cases. The Tobin v. Estate of Ben Tobin case in Florida affirmed a summary judgment barring claims due to the statute of limitations. Updates on Gerald Amirault, Ted Hamilton, Paul Ingram, and Shirley and Ray Souza are also included, highlighting issues of parole, name clearing, false memories, and house arrest related to child abuse allegations.

Michael Donnelly, an FMSF member, offers his thoughts on the Catholic Church crisis, suggesting it's an opportunity to argue for openness and honesty to combat both actual abuse and fabricated memories.

Other Content

The newsletter includes a section on "Recent Comments About Memory in the News Media," presenting both "Disturbing" and "Accurate" perspectives on repressed memories from various news sources. It also announces the phasing out of the FMSF's 800 number due to increased internet usage.

A "Save These Dates" section announces a National Conference on Family Reconciliation to be held in Glenview, Illinois, on October 5-6, 2002, featuring speakers like Elizabeth Loftus and Paul McHugh.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMSF Newsletter consistently promotes a critical stance towards recovered memory therapy, emphasizing the unreliability of memories formed under therapeutic suggestion and the potential harm to individuals and families. The editorial stance advocates for scientific rigor, thorough fact-checking, and therapist accountability. The newsletter aims to educate the public and professionals about the complexities of memory, the dangers of unsubstantiated claims, and the importance of reconciliation and truth in addressing past traumas. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between narrative truth (a compelling story) and historical truth (verifiable facts).

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated May/June 2002, Volume 11, No. 3, is published by the FMS Foundation and focuses on personal experiences related to false memory syndrome and recovered memory therapy. The newsletter includes personal accounts from readers, information about the foundation, and details of upcoming events.

Personal Accounts

'Won Lawsuit but Still No Daughter'

This section details an update from a mother whose daughter estranged herself in 1989. A lawsuit against the daughter's psychologist-therapist was settled, affirming the therapist's wrongdoing, but did not lead to reconciliation. The daughter later divorced her husband, who was accused of abuse, and is now struggling emotionally and physically. Her children believe their grandmother is 'dangerous' and 'crazy,' preventing contact. The mother expresses hope for future reconciliation.

'Gut-Wrenching Pain'

A contributor shares the pain and anxiety experienced when falsely accused of a crime, stemming from recovered memory therapy. The author's daughter, influenced by her therapist, made accusations that led to estrangement. After a year, the daughter returned, and the grandchildren are now part of the author's life. The author reflects on the difficulty of forgiving the therapist and the lasting impact of the experience, while also expressing gratitude for family support.

'We Don't Want to Hear "I'm sorry"'

This piece is from a 'dad' who has not seen his daughter in eleven years. He expresses a desire to move forward and keep only the good memories, stating that if his daughter wishes to return, he does not want to hear 'I'm sorry,' but rather 'it never happened.'

'Why Would She Say It?'

A 'Mom and Dad' share their experience with their daughter's accusations, which began around their 23rd wedding anniversary. They do not believe their husband of 25 years abused their daughter. The daughter moved out and has not returned. The parents express their love and commitment to keeping their home and hearts open, despite the estrangement, and have written a letter of love to their daughter.

'My Family Made the Difference'

This contributor, a parent of adult children, reflects on the difficulty of dealing with accusations. After recanting, the author immersed themselves in understanding the phenomenon and sought therapy. They emphasize the importance of taking responsibility, apologizing, and forgiving oneself and others. The author encourages parents and children not to give up on each other, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes.

'The FMSF Was There'

A member shares their positive experience with the FMSF since joining in 1992. They describe a period of dilemma that disappeared in 1994, attributing their recovery to faith and the FMSF's support, which provided logic, understanding, and a clear determination to counter unwarranted accusations. The author expresses gratitude for the Foundation's role in helping them and thousands of other parents.

Other Content

'A Letter Sent to FMSF Staff:'

An 87-year-old widow expresses gratitude for the newsletter and the encouragement it provides. She shares a positive update about her daughter's birthday dinner, noting it was the first time she had been welcomed back after asking for forgiveness. She also mentions her son's reticence and expresses hope for better-trained therapists.

'One Day at A Time'

This section describes losing a daughter to drug rehabilitation and subsequent estrangement. The parents chose to forgive and keep their hearts open, sending a letter of love to their estranged daughter.

'From Rumor To Reason: Accusations of Child Sexual Abuse'

This announces a one-day conference on 'Accusations of Child Sexual Abuse: Current Scientific, Legal, and Cultural Perspectives' to be held on Thursday, May 16, 2002, at the University of Western Ontario. The conference is for psychologists, attorneys, social workers, and law enforcement personnel and lists several speakers and topics.

Bulletin Board

The newsletter includes a 'Bulletin Board' section listing contacts and meeting information for FMS Foundation chapters across the United States and internationally, along with contact details for the FMSF.

Foundation Information

This section provides copyright information for the FMS Foundation, contact details (address, phone, fax, email, web), and lists the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board members as of May 1, 2002. It also explains how to receive electronic versions of the newsletter and encourages contributions, outlining donation options.

Save These Dates

A notice announces a conference on 'Family Reconciliation' scheduled for Saturday, October 5, and Sunday, October 6, 2002.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the devastating impact of false memory syndrome and recovered memory therapy on individuals and families, the challenges of reconciliation, and the importance of support systems like the FMS Foundation. The editorial stance is one of empathy and validation for those affected by these issues, promoting understanding, forgiveness, and the pursuit of truth and healing. The newsletter actively provides resources, contact information, and personal narratives to support its readership.