False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 12 No 04 - 2003 julyaug

Magazine Overview

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter, dated July/August 2003, Vol. 12 No. 4, addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding repressed and recovered memories, contrasting scientific understanding with popular narratives and media portrayals. The cover story, inspired by the movie 'The Hulk,' discusses the disconnection between scientific views on memory and fictional depictions. The newsletter also delves into legal and societal implications, including changes in statutes of limitations for child abuse cases and the influence of scientific evidence.

The 'Memory Wars' and Scientific Consensus

The newsletter highlights the ongoing debate, often termed the 'memory wars,' concerning the validity of recovered memories. Dr. Paul McHugh, in a review of Richard McNally's book 'Remembering Trauma,' asserts that the 'psychiatric memory wars are over' and that there is no credible scientific evidence to support the collection of beliefs about recovered repressed or dissociated memories. He traces the rise of these beliefs to a reinterpretation of Freud by 'mannerists' and notes that the FMS Foundation played a role in opposing these ideas.

McNally's book is presented as a significant contribution to this discussion, with reviewers noting that it 'leaves no defense of recovered memories.' The research suggests that memories of traumatic experiences are rarely repressed and that individuals who endure shocking ordeals almost always remember them, even if they try to forget them. The newsletter criticizes therapists and researchers for being too lax in distinguishing between reluctance to disclose and true inability to remember.

Legal and Societal Implications

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to legal issues, particularly the statutes of limitations in child sexual abuse cases. The article 'Statutes of Limitations: Changing Climate' explains how these time limits evolved and are now being challenged, partly due to advancements in DNA evidence. Eighteen states are considering eliminating statutes of limitations for child abuse cases, a move reignited by the current Catholic Church sex abuse crisis. The upcoming U.S. Supreme Court ruling in *Stogner v. California* is highlighted as potentially having a dramatic impact on these laws.

Testimony from hearings in New York State illustrates the personal impact of these legal debates, with individuals sharing experiences of repressed memories and the desire to seek justice regardless of age. The newsletter also touches upon the financial aspects of these cases, with an article on Canadian police paying $150,000 to settle a false memory lawsuit and another discussing damage awards to victims of crime in Canada, noting a rise in sexual abuse cases and the search for deep pockets like insurance companies.

Personal Accounts and Case Studies

The newsletter features several personal accounts and reviews of documentaries and books related to memory and trauma.

• "Reclaiming My Name" by Jeanette D. Bartha: This personal essay describes the author's experience with repressed memory therapy, her decision to change her name to escape a label, and her eventual journey to reclaim her identity.
• "Capturing the Friedmans": A review of Andrew Jarecki's documentary, which explores the case of Arnold and Jessie Friedman, found guilty of child molestation. The review notes the film's power in raising questions about who is telling the truth and the potential for false memory hysteria.
• "Sex, God & Greed": An overview of sexual abuse claims against the Catholic Church, discussing the financial implications and the role of lawyers in extending statutes of limitations.
• "Picking up the Pieces: A Sister's Story Told in a Phone Call in 1995": A reader's account ('Ann') of her sister's civil suit based on repressed memories of abuse, the subsequent dismissal of the case, and the lasting impact on the family.
• "Sucked In — Like Quicksand": A reader's reflection on how they may have falsely accused their father due to counseling, journaling, hypnosis, and reading books on related topics, ultimately realizing their mind had been influenced by negative suggestions.

In Memoriam and Honors

The newsletter includes an obituary for Campbell W. Perry, Ph.D., an FMSF Advisor and Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Concordia University, who was a prominent researcher in hypnosis. It also notes the honor bestowed upon Distinguished Professor Elizabeth Loftus, who was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Other Sections

• News From Canada: Reports on the status of recovered memory therapy in British Columbia, government misinformation regarding the FMSF on a Canadian government website, and proposed legislative changes for mental health professionals.
• Foundation Audit: Details the Foundation's financial expenditures for the fiscal year March 1, 2002, to February 28, 2003, indicating that 79% of the budget went to program activities.
• Legal Corner: Discusses the changing climate of statutes of limitations, the role of DNA evidence, and the potential impact of the *Stogner* Supreme Court case.
• FAQ: Addresses common questions about the FMS Foundation's stance, legal changes, and the scientific basis of memory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific unreliability of repressed memories, the legal and societal ramifications of claims based on such memories, and the importance of critical evaluation of psychological claims. The editorial stance is clearly aligned with the scientific consensus that repressed memories are not a valid psychological phenomenon and that the 'memory wars' have been largely settled against the concept. The newsletter advocates for education and critical thinking in addressing these complex issues, while also acknowledging the pain and suffering experienced by individuals and families affected by these controversies.

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, Vol. 12 No. 4, published in July/August 2003, is a publication from the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. It addresses issues related to false memories, recovered memory therapy, and its impact on families and individuals. The newsletter features personal accounts, professional insights, and resources for those affected by these issues.

Articles and Features

"SATIRE SATIRE SATIRE Turnabout" This satirical piece, written from the perspective of 'Sue,' an adult parent of a 'toxic adult child of functional nurturing,' humorously explores the concept of victimhood in the context of family relationships and therapy. Sue describes being 'abused' by her child and her own journey of 'healing' by focusing on identifying 'perpetrators' and considering legal action. The article includes a checklist for readers to identify if they are parents of a 'toxic adult child.'

"What I Would Say if My Child Read My Letters" This section contains a letter from a mother to her son, expressing her ongoing thoughts and prayers for his well-being. She reflects on his positive qualities and dexterity, hoping he finds joy and overcomes anger. The letter is signed 'A Mother.'

"No Understanding" Written by 'A Mom,' this piece reflects on the FMSF Conference in Chicago. The author notes the progress made and the value of meeting other members and hearing speakers, but expresses disappointment with the 'slowness and lack of definitive response from the professions that did the damage to our families.' She emphasizes the need for national retraction and disclosure for families to achieve full reconciliation.

"Is the FMS Problem Disappearing? An Observation" This observation details two new contacts the FMSF has had. One involved parents accused by adult children decades later, and the second concerned a young man in his late twenties accused after his patient underwent recovered memory therapy. The latter was convicted and denied parole for refusing therapy for behavior he claims he is not guilty of.

"Thoughts From A Sister" This personal reflection discusses the author's experience with sisters who have 'not literally true' memories leading to self-pity and blame. The author, who previously underwent therapy involving recovered memories and hypnosis, now believes these memories were overstimulated and misinterpreted. She describes the ongoing family struggle and the need to discredit false memories and the rewriting of family history.

"A Proposal" This section proposes the creation of an 'Innocence Commission' similar to the National Transportation Safety Board, to study why the legal system has failed in cases of wrongful conviction, specifically focusing on memory problems that have led to injustice. It cites examples like the case of Steve Titus and death-row prisoners exonerated by DNA evidence.

"The Rutherford Family Speaks to FMS Families" This highlights a popular video by the Rutherford family that chronicles their experience from accusation to retraction and reconciliation. It specifically mentions Beth Rutherford's comments on her family's process of retracting and returning.

"The Illinois-Wisconsin FMS Society Conference Oct. 4, 2003" This announces an upcoming conference in Glenview, IL, with the theme 'Overcoming Illusions.' Featured speaker Carol North, M.D., will discuss 'The Courage to Heal for Real: A Recanter Who Told It All,' focusing on a patient who transformed from accuser to recanter. The conference will also include a parent panel, a documentary screening, and a roundtable discussion.

Book and Media Reviews/Recommendations Several books and articles are recommended or reviewed: * "Science and Pseudoscience in Clinical Psychology" (Lilienfeld, Lynn, & Lohr, eds.) * "Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: A Chronology of Its Development and Scientific Standing" (Devilly, G.J.) * "Psychology Astray: Fallacies in Studies of 'Repressed Memory' and Childhood Trauma" by Harrison G. Pope, Jr., M.D. * "Ask an Expert," This American Life, June 14, 2002 (features the Rutherfords and a retracting therapist). * "Attachment Therapy on Trial: The Torture and Death of Candace Newmaker" by Jean Mercer, Larry Sarner, and Linda Rosa.

Web Sites of Interest A comprehensive list of websites related to false memory, memory research, and related organizations is provided, including links to the Lampinen Lab, Exploratorium Memory Exhibit, StopBadTherapy.com, and various international FMS groups.

Legal Websites of Interest A list of legal resources such as caseassist.com, findlaw.com, and legalengine.com is included.

Bulletin Board The bulletin board lists contacts and meeting information for FMSF chapters across the United States and internationally, including Canada, Australia, Israel, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. It also provides a deadline for submitting meeting notices for the next newsletter.

"Copyright © 2003 by the FMS Foundation" This section provides the FMS Foundation's contact information, including address, phone, fax, email, and website. It also introduces Pamela Freyd, Ph.D., as the Executive Director. The FMSF is described as a qualified 501(c)3 corporation. It also explains how to receive electronic versions of the newsletter and encourages contributions.

FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board A list of the members of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board as of July 1, 2003, is provided, featuring numerous academics and professionals in psychology and related fields.

Your Contribution Will Help This section outlines how readers can contribute to the FMS Foundation, accepting Visa, Discover, Mastercard, and checks or money orders. It requests full information for processing donations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the complexities of false memory syndrome, the impact of recovered memory therapy, and the challenges of family reconciliation. The editorial stance appears to be one of support for individuals and families affected by these issues, advocating for critical examination of therapeutic practices, and promoting a more nuanced understanding of memory. The newsletter actively provides resources, contact information, and a platform for sharing experiences and research related to FMS.