False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 12 No 01 - 2003 janfeb

Magazine Overview

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) Newsletter, dated January/February 2003, reflects on the significant shift in public and professional understanding of the false memory phenomenon over the past decade. The editorial highlights how the initial widespread belief in repressed memories and the trauma model has been challenged by extensive research, leading to a more skeptical climate.

The Shifting Climate of False Memories

The newsletter contrasts the situation in January 1993, when the country was grappling with a large number of families devastated by legal cases based on recovered repressed memories and media reports reflecting unskeptical belief, with the present. Now, introductory psychology textbooks include sections on false memories, and scholarly articles and documentaries are readily available. While new accusations are less frequent, many families are now focused on reconciliation or exoneration.

Resurgence of Legal Cases and Clergy Abuse

Despite the increased understanding, legal cases based on recovered repressed memories have seen a resurgence, particularly in the wake of clergy-abuse cases. The newsletter notes that these suits often ride on the coattails of such scandals, where the issue is the inadequate response to abuse reports rather than the memory of the abuse itself. The Louisiana Supreme Court has been noted for opening the door to repressed memory cases, with a quote from Bob Herbert stating, "when a desire is strong enough it can overwhelm such flimsy stuff as facts and truth."

Critiques of the Trauma Model

Richard McNally, Ph.D., is highlighted for reviewing the problems with the trauma model at a conference. He emphasized that research data do not support its core assumptions, such as memories being banished from awareness or that more traumatic incidents are more likely to be forgotten. Empirical evidence does not support the idea that remembering abuse aids healing. New research is presented that seems to contradict other beliefs associated with the trauma model.

Alternative Models and Research Findings

This issue reviews a paper suggesting an alternative to the trauma model: the "Life Course Perspective." This model posits that the impact of child abuse is a function of later poor decisions made due to a lack of emotional and cognitive skills, rather than a direct traumatic event. Browning and Laumann's study using data from the National Health and Social Life Survey found that women who were sexually abused tend to be more sexually active, have sex at earlier ages, and have more partners, suggesting that adult-child sex "eroticizes" the child and creates a sexual script that increases long-term risks. This model offers a framework that can account for the wide variation in human responses to child abuse, unlike the "one-size-fits-all" psychogenic model.

Legal Developments and Wrongful Convictions

The newsletter covers several legal developments. The case of John Doe v. Archdiocese of New Orleans is discussed, where the Louisiana Supreme Court allowed the case to proceed, setting a precedent for repressed memory claims. Comments from experts like Tana Dineen, Ph.D., and Peter Scharf highlight skepticism regarding the scientific validity of repressed memories in legal contexts.

In England, the Mullin Committee report is noted for urging a review of suspected wrongful convictions stemming from child abuse allegations. The report makes several recommendations, including new safeguards for historical child-abuse trials, tighter rules for admitting "similar fact" evidence, and the proper recording of police interviews.

The George Franklin case is revisited, where he was convicted of murder based on his daughter's repressed memories. Although released due to errors, his civil suit against police and attorneys was dismissed, though claims against his daughter are still pending.

A proposed Massachusetts law (HB 5199) aims to allow wrongfully imprisoned individuals to seek compensation. California has waived the statute of limitations for civil sexual abuse lawsuits against organizations for the year 2003, allowing previously dismissed cases to be refiled under certain conditions.

The Wenatchee Update details the reinstatement of a civil rights lawsuit against the city, where key files were allegedly withheld from plaintiffs' lawyers, who were described as "blindsided and misled."

Continuing Education and Professional Standards

A continuing education workshop titled "It Wasn't a Dream: Recognizing and Analyzing, in Adult Patients, the Symptoms of Childhood Sexual Abuse" is criticized for promoting discredited notions. The newsletter cites statements from major professional organizations (American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association, Canadian Psychological Association, Royal College of Psychiatrists) that emphasize there is no specific symptom profile diagnostic of child sexual abuse or previous sexual abuse without memories.

The article "Are Evidence-Based Psychological Interventions Practiced by Clinicians in the Field?" by W.C. Sanderson points out that practitioners often do not use evidence-based treatments (EBTs), even for common disorders like panic disorder, suggesting a lack of skill, inadequate continuing education requirements, and a negative bias towards EBTs.

Personal Accounts and Support

The "From Our Readers" section includes two personal accounts. One mother expresses gratitude for the FMSF's support over 14 years as her daughter returned to the family. Another account details a difficult journey through therapy for depression, where the therapist diagnosed dissociative disorder and MPD, leading the individual to believe they were abused, a belief they later questioned.

The "One Parent In Touch" initiative is introduced, aiming to form a support group for families where only one parent is in contact with the accuser.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMSF Newsletter consistently advocates for a critical examination of the recovered memory phenomenon and the trauma model. It emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence, rigorous legal standards, and the protection of individuals from false accusations. The publication highlights research that challenges prevailing theories, supports exoneration efforts, and promotes skepticism towards claims based solely on recovered memories. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of repressed memory claims in legal and therapeutic contexts, advocating for evidence-based approaches and a more nuanced understanding of human memory and trauma.

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, Volume 12, No. 1, dated January/February 2003, is a publication from the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. The newsletter serves as a platform for sharing personal experiences, raising awareness about issues related to False Memory Syndrome (FMS), and providing resources and support.

Personal Accounts and Experiences

One significant personal account details an individual's journey from a diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) and suspected Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA) to realizing it was False Memory Syndrome. The author describes the difficulty of functioning with 200 "alters" and the process of healing through art therapy. Upon moving and changing therapists, the author learned about FMS and began to question the previous diagnosis. The new therapist focused on stability and improving life in the here and now. The author eventually realized that the SRA and MPD diagnoses were not real, leading to a significant improvement in life, cessation of medication, and a busy, happy life as a full-time student and PTA president. The author expresses gratitude for being able to speak about this experience and the loss associated with FMS.

Another section, "After Many Years," offers a perspective from a couple who, though no longer actively involved with the FMSF, still occasionally reach out to inform others about "insane therapy" and the Foundation. They express comfort in knowing there are others who understand their difficult family situation, acknowledging that it's impossible for those who haven't experienced it to truly comprehend. They thank the newsletter for providing a place to turn for questions and for the encouragement and hope it offers.

"She'd Look for Sexual Abuse"

This section highlights a concern that the legacy of accusations lingers, even when families are cleared. It recounts an instance where, in a psychology course, a case history of a depressed woman led a social worker to immediately suggest looking for a history of sexual abuse, "probably in her childhood." This is presented as an example of how such accusations can persist.

"Disillusioned"

This piece reflects a sense of disillusionment among long-term volunteers. As a contact for FMSF, the author notes a lack of new calls for about a year. While acknowledging that the type of accusation still exists, the author feels that much renewed effort would be needed to combat this "type of family destruction." The group is described as "old, disillusioned, hurt, perhaps bitter," lacking the vigor of younger activists. The author quotes the disregarded cries of those accused: "investigate me, on what basis can you accuse me of such criminal and shameful acts and be accuser, jury and judge, and leave me for dead."

Conference Announcement: Child Abuse Allegations: Science vs. Suspicion

The newsletter prominently features an announcement for a conference held March 13-15, 2003, in New Orleans, LA, sponsored by the National Child Abuse Defense & Resource Center. The conference agenda is detailed, listing numerous speakers and topics covering various aspects of child abuse allegations, including legal, psychological, and forensic perspectives. Sessions include "Overview and Current Trends in Child Abuse Cases," "Educating Your Resistant Judge," "Ethical Obligations in Defending Abuse Allegations," "DNA and Other Issues," "Defending Juvenile Offenders Accused of Sex Abuse," "Use and Misuse of Psychological Tests in the Courts," and "Psychological Factors Involved in Memory Distortion vs. Intentional Deceit." Workshops cover topics like "Shaken Baby Syndrome," "Voir Dire, Jury Selection," "No Budget Defense," and "Cross Examination of Experts/Kids." The second day includes sessions on "Predator Issues: Fact vs. Fiction," "False Confessions of Child Abuse," and "Temporary Brittle Bone and Other Disorders as Causes of Unexplained Fractures." The third day addresses "Medical Sexual Abuse," "Bruises and Burns: Differentiating Between Abuse and Non-Abuse," and "Computer Hard Drive Verification."

Video Update and Conference Order Form

There is a "Video Update" apologizing for delays in fulfilling VHS and DVD orders from the October 5 & 6, 2002 National Conference. A "LAST CALL FOR ORDERS" indicates that 15 VHS sets and 3 DVD sets remain. A "National Conference Video Order Form" is provided, allowing attendees or interested parties to order videos of the conference sessions on VHS or DVD, with prices listed for each tape format.

Web Sites of Interest and Legal Websites

The newsletter includes a list of "Web Sites of Interest," providing URLs for various organizations and resources related to false memory, memory debate archives, French and Australian false memory associations, and sites discussing Satanic Ritual Abuse. A separate section lists "Legal Websites of Interest," including general legal resources and sites related to accusations.

Bulletin Board: Contacts & Meetings

A comprehensive "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. This section allows individuals to find local support and connect with others.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently advocates for the critical examination of recovered memories, particularly in the context of child abuse allegations. It highlights the potential for iatrogenic (therapist-induced) false memories and criticizes therapeutic approaches that may lead to such outcomes. The newsletter provides a platform for individuals who believe they have been victims of false memory syndrome and offers support and information to them and their families. There is a recurring theme of challenging the validity of certain therapeutic practices and legal interpretations that rely heavily on recovered memories, emphasizing the importance of scientific rigor and evidence-based approaches. The publication also aims to connect individuals with local support groups and resources, fostering a sense of community among those affected by these issues.