False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 11 No 05 - 2002 septoct

Magazine Overview

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) Newsletter, dated September/October 2002, addresses several key concerns related to memory, abuse allegations, and legal outcomes. The editorial highlights the FMSF's engagement with a conference on family violence that included workshops on 'ritual abuse,' expressing concern over the potential resurgence of unsubstantiated conspiracy theories. The newsletter also features articles on legal cases involving accusations of child abuse, including a successful libel suit by two nursery teachers in the UK and a case where a policeman was awarded damages for malicious prosecution. Scientific research on memory distortion, particularly in relation to alien abduction claims, is discussed, alongside a review of a novel that is criticized for promoting the concept of recovered memory therapy. The issue also includes a detailed program for the FMSF's upcoming conference on reconciliation.

Editorial: Concerns Regarding Ritual Abuse and Conferences

The editorial, penned by Pamela Freyd, Executive Director of the FMSF, opens by addressing the controversy surrounding the appointment of FMSF Advisor Paul McHugh, M.D., to a Catholic Church panel on clergy abuse. It then pivots to the FMSF's concerns about the 7th International Conference on Family Violence in San Diego. The FMSF had written to the conference sponsors and collaborators expressing dismay that the event included workshops on 'ritual abuse,' citing studies by the FBI, National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, and the British Government that found no credible evidence for organized satanic cults. The FMSF argued that such sessions undermine the conference's credibility and could reignite the hysteria surrounding 'satanic conspiracies' that characterized the early 1990s. Replies from various organizations indicated a range of reactions, with some unaware of the workshops and others, like the Attorney General of California, clarifying their office's non-endorsement of specific viewpoints. The Director of the Centers for Disease Control noted that while the CDC views ritualized child abuse as an area needing research, they do not have an official position and do not sponsor such workshops. The primary organizers of the conference, however, characterized the FMSF as a 'fringe advocacy organization.' The editorial expresses hope that the climate has shifted away from the hysteria of the past and emphasizes the need for collective efforts to prevent the recurrence of families being destroyed and individuals being unjustly imprisoned.

Legal Cases and Outcomes

Nursery Teachers Regain Reputations in England

This section details the libel case brought by Dawn Reed and Christopher Lillie, two former nursery school workers in Newcastle, UK. Accused in 1993 of abusing dozens of children, the case collapsed due to a lack of credible evidence. Despite being cleared in criminal court, a subsequent review committee report by the Newcastle City Council, published in 1998, allegedly concealed and misrepresented evidence. Reed and Lillie, who were not notified of the report or given a chance to respond, sued for libel. The trial, described as the longest and most expensive of its kind in the UK on a no-win, no-fee basis, resulted in Reed and Lillie being awarded $310,000 each in July 2002. The judge was critical of the inquiry team's handling of evidence. The article notes the devastating impact of the accusations on the teachers' lives and the families seeking compensation who may now face challenges due to the judge's dismissal of the allegations.

Policeman Awarded $1.3 Million

This article reports on John Popowich, a Saskatoon police corporal who was awarded $1.3 million in a settlement related to a child abuse case that supposedly occurred as part of a satanic ritual. The case, dubbed the 'Scandal of the Century,' was conducted under a press blackout. Charges later fell apart after an RCMP task force concluded the original investigation was motivated by 'emotional hysteria.' Popowich was declared innocent in 1993 after accusing children could not identify him, by which time the reputations and lives of eight others convicted in the case were ruined. Popowich sued for malicious prosecution, violation of charter rights, and conspiracy and negligence.

Court Rejects Claims of Decades Old Abuse in New Jersey

In a three-week trial in April-May 2002, the Atlantic County Superior Court of New Jersey ruled that claims of decades-old abuse brought by brothers John and Mark Depman were barred by the statute of limitations. The suit, originally filed in 1994, initially included racketeering counts which were dismissed in 1995. The plaintiffs claimed they never forgot the alleged abuse but did not label these events as wrong or as sexual abuse due to dissociative thinking following the trauma. The court rejected the plaintiffs' expert testimony on memory retrieval, concluding that their testimony of remembering the abuse did not validate claims of a dissociative reaction. The court also rejected the plaintiffs' argument that they should be excused because of memory retrieval following a traumatic assault.

Scientific Research and Memory

Childhood Victimization and Pain in Adulthood: A Prospective Investigation

This section comments on a study by Raphael, Widom, and Lange published in 'Pain' journal, which questions the assumption that childhood abuse causes unexplained pain in adulthood. The study analyzed court-documented cases of early childhood victimization and found no support for a link between childhood abuse and medically unexplained or psychogenic pain in adulthood. This finding is contrasted with studies by Hudson and Pope, which examined links between childhood sexual abuse and adult symptoms like bulimia nervosa and fibromyalgia, finding no such connections.

Memory Distortion in People Reporting Abduction by Aliens

This article discusses a study by Clancy et al. in the 'Journal of Abnormal Psychology' that investigated memory distortion in individuals reporting recovered memories of alien abduction. The study found that people reporting recovered and repressed memories of alien abduction were more prone to false recall and recognition compared to controls. Hypnotic suggestibility, depressive symptoms, and schizotypic features were identified as significant predictors of these memory distortions. The authors suggest that since alien abduction is unlikely to have occurred, this study highlights the potential for memory distortion in individuals who believe they have experienced such events.

Book Review: 'The Memory Room'

Mark Pendergrast reviews Mary Rakow's novel 'The Memory Room,' published in 2002. Pendergrast is highly critical of the book, despite its positive reviews in mainstream media. He argues that the novel's premise—that memories of horrendous traumatic events can be 'repressed' or 'dissociated' and recalled years later—is a 'classic if unintended presentation of how recovered memory therapy can ruin someone's life.' Pendergrast asserts that this concept is contrary to the science of memory and common sense, and that therapists who believe in such massive repression are dangerous. He criticizes the book's depiction of Barbara, the protagonist, who becomes agoraphobic and suffers significant psychological distress as a result of recovered memory therapy. Pendergrast finds the book's ending anticlimactic and expresses concern that well-meaning liberal theologians may be as gullible about recovered memories as those who believe in direct divine revelation.

Book Review: 'Ostracism: The Power of Silence'

This section reviews Kipling D. Williams' book 'Ostracism: The Power of Silence.' The book explores ostracism as a method of temporary banishment and exclusion from a group, examining its powerful role in social influence. Williams' engaging style makes the scholarly material accessible, and he presents a model for examining ostracism and its consequences. The review highlights the book's observation that ostracism chips away at senses of belonging, control, self-esteem, and meaningful existence. The author also expresses interest in examining the phenomenon of being disowned or disinherited. The review suggests that the refusal of FMS accusers to speak to those they accused or to their supporters can be viewed as a form of ostracism.

Book Award: 'A City Possessed: The Christchurch Civic Creche Case'

The prestigious New Zealand Montana Medal for non-fiction was awarded to Lynley Hood for her 600-page book, 'A City Possessed: The Christchurch Civic Creche Case.' The book investigates the controversial case that led to the jailing of Peter Ellis in 1993 on child abuse charges, analyzing the social and legal processes leading to the conviction. The review notes that the book has far-reaching implications and is valuable for anyone interested in the hysteria surrounding day-care and sexual abuse cases.

FMSF Advisors Included in List of 99 Most Eminent Psychologists of the 20th Century

A new study by S. J. Haggbloom et al. in the 'Review of General Psychology' ranks the most eminent psychologists of the 20th century. Three FMSF Advisors are included: Ernest R. Hilgard (deceased), Ulric Neisser, and Elizabeth F. Loftus. Elizabeth Loftus is noted as the highest-ranking woman on the list. The study also identifies five FMSF Advisors among the most cited psychologists in textbooks: Elizabeth Loftus, Ernest Hilgard, Martin Orne (deceased), John Kihlstrom, and Aaron Beck.

My Deepest Appreciation

Allen Feid expresses his profound gratitude to the people and groups involved with the FMS Foundation. He specifically thanks the staff for creating a comfortable work environment, the scientists and therapists who assisted falsely accused families, and a group of 'retractors' who courageously admitted their errors. Feid highlights the vital role of families who shared their stories, contributing to public awareness of false memories and the reconstructive nature of memory. He notes the significant increase in public recognition that repression is scientifically uncertain, leading to more research into false memories. Feid also observes that the Foundation's efforts have likely informed courts and juries, leading to more effective representation in cases involving false memories. He concludes by expressing appreciation for the strength and resilience of FMSF families and their positive legacy.

Conference Program Schedule

The newsletter includes a detailed program for the FMS Foundation's conference, scheduled for Friday, October 4th to Sunday, October 6th, 2002, in Glenbrook Ballroom. The schedule outlines sessions on topics such as 'A Natural History of Reconciliation,' 'Different Paths to Reconciliation,' 'Reconciliation: A Social Psychiatric Perspective,' and 'Illusions of Memory and the Hazards of Case Studies.' Various panels and round tables are planned, covering themes like working with professional organizations, third-party cases, and the future of the FMS Foundation. Registration details and options for dinner are also provided.

From Our Readers: Accountability

Nadean Cool writes about her experience attending the 18th Annual Midwest Conference on Child Sexual Abuse in Madison, Wisconsin. She describes how attending this conference in 1987 was a catalyst for her belief in recovered memory therapy, influenced by speakers like Laura Davis. Cool expresses outrage that Davis continues to spread her views and teach future therapists about the validity of Recovered Memory Therapy, questioning how true reconciliation can occur without acknowledging the damage caused by books like 'The Courage to Heal.' Cool is organizing an effort to have a 'presence' at the upcoming conference to represent those harmed by this therapy and to raise awareness about false memories and brainwashing. She invites others interested in participating to contact her.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMSF Newsletter consistently advocates for a critical examination of recovered memory claims and 'ritual abuse' theories, emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence and the potential for harm caused by unsubstantiated allegations. The publication highlights legal cases that have resulted in vindication for the falsely accused, underscoring the importance of due process and the protection of the innocent. The FMSF's stance is one of promoting scientific understanding of memory, challenging therapeutic practices that may induce false memories, and supporting families affected by these issues. The newsletter also promotes reconciliation and a more nuanced understanding of trauma and memory, while actively engaging in public education and advocacy to counter what it perceives as harmful pseudoscience and societal hysteria.

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, Volume 11, Number 5, published in September/October 2002, is a publication from the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. The issue features personal stories, legal discussions, and resources related to recovered memory claims and their impact on families.

Key Articles and Features

After Eleven Years This personal account details the return of a daughter who had previously accused her father of sexual abuse based on 'body memories.' After eleven years of estrangement, she contacted her family, acknowledging that her father did not abuse her but still feeling that she was abused, though unsure by whom. The author expresses relief and hope at this partial reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of family support and criticizing the theories behind repressed memory therapy.

Sister Mediated Apology This article recounts a similar experience where a daughter, after accusing her father of sexual abuse in 1993, eventually recanted the accusation. The reconciliation was facilitated by one of her sisters, who felt it was time to settle the issue. The daughter stated she no longer believed her father was the abuser but still felt she was abused, though she couldn't identify the perpetrator. The author expresses a mix of relief and uncertainty, acknowledging the difficulty of accepting that the memories might have been fantasy. The return of the daughter to the family's life is celebrated.

Joining Forces: Recanters and the Accused Jaye D. Bartha, a 'recanter' (someone who no longer believes their recovered memories), advocates for collaboration between recanters and the falsely accused. She highlights the need to use their knowledge to prevent further false accusations and to educate the public and judicial system about the dangers of irresponsible psychotherapy. Bartha discusses the case of Bruce Perkins, convicted of aggravated sexual assault based on recovered memories, and urges readers to write to state legislators or support prisoners.

Update from Missouri This section reports on families in St. Louis whose daughters have returned after having recovered memories. Several daughters have either stopped mentioning 'it' or have apologized for any pain caused. The FMS Foundation is credited with helping these families.

This American Life This entry recommends a program from PRI's 'This American Life' (episode #215, "Ask an Expert") that discussed people receiving harmful advice from experts, featuring the Rutherford family and a therapist who changed her practice.

Expert Testimony and Justice Gone Astray: Trauma, Memory, and Child Sexual Abuse This section details a one-day conference held at Boston University on November 1, 2002, offering Continuing Education for professionals. The conference featured panels on the science and practice of recovered memories, child suggestibility, and the legal system's role. Speakers included academics and legal professionals.

Book Collaboration Request Eleanor Goldstein and Mark Pendergrast are seeking stories and insights from individuals who have experienced family reconciliation following recovered memory claims for a book they are writing.

Web Sites of Interest A comprehensive list of websites related to the memory debate, FMS organizations in various countries, and legal resources is provided.

Bulletin Board This section lists contacts and meeting information for FMS Foundation support groups across the United States and internationally, including Canada, Australia, Israel, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Sweden.

FMS Foundation Information Details about the FMS Foundation's mission, its newsletter subscription policy (available to those who contribute at least $30.00), and its contact information are provided. A section also solicits contributions to the Foundation.

Conference Announcement A conference on Family Reconciliation is announced, scheduled for October 5-6, 2002, in Glenview, Illinois.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the view that recovered memories can be unreliable and often the result of therapeutic suggestion, leading to false accusations and family disruption. The FMS Foundation positions itself as a resource for those affected by these issues, advocating for a critical examination of memory recovery techniques and supporting the falsely accused. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories and in favor of family reunification and the pursuit of truth in legal cases.