False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 14 No 01 - 2005 janfeb

Magazine Overview

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) Newsletter, dated January/February 2005, marks the 14th year of publication. The newsletter addresses the ongoing 'memory wars,' particularly concerning recovered memories of abuse, and highlights the work of FMSF advisor Elizabeth Loftus, Ph.D., who received the prestigious Grawemeyer Award for Psychology. The issue also delves into the unreliability of hypnosis in memory retrieval, examines Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), and explores phenomena like UFO abductions and past-life regressions.

The Memory Wars Continue

The editorial opens by responding to a reader's question about whether the 'memory wars' are over, stating that the topic is still very much alive. It notes that novels about recovered abuse memories and multiple personalities are still being produced, and that legal and legislative bodies still sometimes treat 'repressed memory syndrome' as a special kind of memory. The FMSF emphasizes the continued need for skeptical books on the subject.

The newsletter expresses initial naivete in expecting the recovered memory phenomenon to subside quickly with the availability of scientific information. However, it acknowledges that the situation has improved significantly since 1992. A key indicator of this shift is the Grawemeyer Award given to Elizabeth Loftus for her research on memory alteration. Dr. Loftus views the award as a validation of her work, done in a climate of hostility and difficulty, and a testament to her resilience against those who have tried to discredit her for over a decade.

Comments from November 2004 suggest that while the justice system's bias towards recovered memories has lessened, the 'memory wars' have not entirely ended. Attorneys and experts note that 'merchants of discredited memory theory' continue to perpetuate these ideas. The availability of scientific evidence has improved the situation, but vigilance is still needed to prevent further harm to families and individuals.

Two persistent questions remain: how people come to believe strongly in events that never happened, and how they reconcile with families after such experiences. While research has shed light on the first, the second remains less understood, particularly on a personal level for family members.

Elizabeth Loftus Receives Grawemeyer Award

This section details Elizabeth Loftus's achievements, including her election to the National Academy of Sciences and her Grawemeyer Award for Psychology from the University of Louisville, which came with a $200,000 prize. The award recognizes her influential research on memory alteration, impacting law and psychotherapy. Dr. Loftus is described as a prolific researcher and author, known for her book "The Myth of Repressed Memory." Her colleague, Chuansheng Chen, lauded her as a "giant in psychology" who has educated various audiences on the limitations and malleability of human memory. FMSF members value her compassion, accessibility, and courage in speaking out.

The article notes that Loftus's receipt of the award drew criticism from some 'so-called survivors.' In response, Loftus stated her regret if people did not want to accept the existence of false memories. The psychology award committee chair, Richard Lewine, emphasized that the award was based solely on the quality of her work, acknowledging that potent ideas can elicit potent reactions.

Research Highlights

Forensic Developmental Psychology

The newsletter highlights a paper by Maggie Bruck and Stephen Ceci on "Forensic developmental psychology: Unveiling four common misconceptions." This paper challenges commonly held beliefs about child disclosure and suggestion, stating that:

• Sexually abused children do not necessarily withhold disclosure; they may tell if directly asked.
• Suggestiveness in interviews is not solely determined by the number of leading questions but by interviewer bias.
• Suggestibility is not limited to preschoolers; it is common in middle childhood and can occur in adults.
• False beliefs and reports can be generated by a single suggestive interview, not necessarily multiple ones.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

A two-part review by FMSF advisors August Piper and Harold Merskey critically examines the literature on Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). They found "logical inconsistencies" and a conflict with established scientific principles. The review questions the claimed causal link between DID and extreme childhood trauma, noting a lack of adequate documentation and methodological flaws in corroborating reports. The authors argue that the dramatic increase in DID cases in the 1980s does not parallel childhood abuse data, and that if trauma were the primary cause, childhood DID cases should have increased proportionally, which they have not. The review concludes that there is no proof for the claim that DID results from childhood trauma, that the condition is not reliably diagnosed, that childhood DID cases are rarely reported, and that blatant iatrogenesis (harm caused by medical treatment) is evident.

Piper and Merskey posit that DID is a "culture-bound and often iatrogenic condition," beginning with an analysis of suggestion in DID treatment. They argue that interventions to access alter personalities reinforce DID behaviors. Given the logical inconsistencies and diagnostic difficulties, they recommend that courts should not accept testimony in favor of DID. They predict that DID will eventually become as credible as spirits.

Researchers Associate Specific Brain Areas with False Memories

An article discusses research by Gonsalves et al. (2004) on how vivid imagining can lead to false memories. Using fMRI, researchers monitored brain activity as volunteers imagined objects. Later, they misremembered these imagined objects as having been seen. The study suggests that a vividly imagined event leaves a memory trace similar to an experienced event, and that brain activity during the imagining phase can predict subsequent false recall.

SRA and UFO Abductions: New Religious Movements?

This section reviews research by Christopher D. Bader on UFO abductees and ritual-abuse survivors. Bader's demographic portrait of these groups reveals they are predominantly female, white, affluent, and well-educated, similar to those joining new age and novel religious movements. The article suggests that these movements may offer women leadership opportunities or emphasize female power and spirituality. Bader notes that these individuals are interested in things outside the mainstream.

Hypnosis: Memory Prod or Production?

This extensive section, excerpted from Mark Pendergrast's book "Victims of Memory," critically examines the role of hypnosis in recovering memories. It begins by likening the implantation of repressed memory ideas to the insidious spread of mental kudzu.

The author argues that hypnosis is not a reliable tool for uncovering true memories. Citing the "Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry," the article states that hypnosis does not increase accurate memory but increases the willingness to report uncertain memories with conviction. It also highlights the tendency to confabulate, especially in areas where recollection is weak, and to distort memories to fit beliefs and fantasies. The hypnotist's beliefs can also be incorporated into the patient's memories.

Psychologist Robert Baker is quoted as saying, "There is no such thing as hypnosis," asserting that hypnotic phenomena are part of a subject's belief system and can be achieved through other means like guided imagery or relaxation exercises. The article emphasizes that when individuals are relaxed, willing to suspend judgment, and place faith in an authority figure, deceptive scenes can be induced.

Several researchers, including Clark Hull, A.M. Weitzenhoffer, Martin Orne, and Elizabeth Loftus, are cited for their views on hypnosis and suggestibility. They stress that hypnosis greatly facilitates the reconstruction of history and that it is impossible to distinguish veridical recall from pseudomemories without independent proof. The article notes that even attempts to use polygraphs to distinguish real from phony memories have failed.

Hypnosis and Suggestibility

The core of the argument against hypnosis for memory retrieval lies in its inherent suggestibility. Hypnotism is defined as a state of enhanced suggestibility, where subjects tacitly agree to abide by the hypnotist's suggestions. While this can be useful for goals like smoking cessation or pain reduction, it is inappropriate for recovering repressed memories. The article quotes psychiatrist Martin Orne and psychologist Elizabeth Loftus, who have repeatedly stressed in courtroom settings that hypnosis can catalyze beliefs into 'memories' and that it's impossible to differentiate true recall from pseudomemories without independent knowledge.

The Role of the Hypnotist and Subject

Both the hypnotist and the subject are described as participating in a "shared delusion" or "mini-drama." The hypnotist, believing they are uncovering hidden memories, actively influences the process. The subject, eager to please or find answers, complies with the hypnotist's instructions. The article cites research by Bernheim and Laurence & Perry, demonstrating how subjects can elaborate on illusory events suggested during hypnosis, even insisting on their reality after being told they were suggested.

Confabulation and Role-Playing

Nicholas Spanos's experiments are discussed, suggesting that implanted memories might be the result of role-playing rather than genuine recall. However, the article counters that Spanos may have overlooked the vital importance of rehearsal and reinforcement in producing false memories. The confidence with which well-rehearsed confabulations are reported is highlighted, along with Martin Orne's caution that psychologists and psychiatrists are not adept at recognizing deception.

Age Regression: Let's Pretend

Age regression, a common hypnotic technique, is presented as a form of role-playing where adults perform as they believe children would. The article cites Robert Baker and Michael Nash, who conclude that there is no evidence that hypnosis enables accurate re-experiencing of childhood events or a return to developmental states. Even when hypnotically regressed subjects perform convincingly, normal control subjects can do so as well. The article suggests that age progression, where subjects are told to progress to older ages, also involves fantasy.

Past Lives and Unidentified Flying Fantasies

The newsletter draws parallels between the retrieval of past-life memories and UFO abductions under hypnosis, suggesting both can be products of imagination and suggestion. The article mentions Theodore Flournoy's concept of "cryptomnesia" (unconscious transference) to explain how information from books or movies can be incorporated into supposed past-life memories. Similarly, it suggests that UFO abduction narratives, often detailed and emotionally charged, may be influenced by the therapist's expectations and the subject's desire to please, rather than factual events.

David Jacobs and John Mack are mentioned for their belief in UFO abductions, with their clients recalling experiences that bear similarities to repressed memories of sexual abuse. The article concludes that the pain experienced in these scenarios is real, but the memories themselves may have been prompted and encouraged through hypnotic regression.

Victoria, Australia, Inquiry

An announcement details an inquiry by the Department of Human Services in Victoria, Australia, into the practice of recovered memory therapy. The inquiry seeks submissions from interested parties to improve practice and protect the public, focusing on the belief that memories can be repressed and the association of this therapy with the recovery of childhood sexual abuse memories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of recovered memories, particularly when elicited through hypnosis. The FMSF Newsletter adopts a skeptical stance, emphasizing the unreliability of hypnotic recall, the potential for confabulation and pseudomemories, and the influence of suggestion and therapist expectations. The publication consistently advocates for scientific rigor and critical thinking in understanding memory, distinguishing between genuine recall and imagined events. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, especially when they lead to accusations and family disruption, advocating instead for evidence-based approaches and a cautious interpretation of memory claims.

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue Date: January/February 2005
Volume: 14, No. 1
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Focus: The newsletter addresses issues surrounding False Memory Syndrome (FMS), Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), and Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA), primarily through reader contributions and informational articles.

Reader Contributions

We Need A United Front by Professionals This letter expresses gratitude to the FMSF for support over 12 years, highlighting the feeling of isolation before finding the organization. The writer's daughter, a psychotherapist, accused her father and sister of being early childhood victims, and they continue to believe this. The writer hopes a united front from professionals might convince her daughter.

Cards But No Talk A mother shares that her daughter left 16 years ago after accusing family members. While she sends cards for special occasions, she refuses verbal communication. The FMSF has provided support during this difficult time.

A Retractor on Retracting This section features a lengthy personal account from someone who began questioning their beliefs in MPD and SRA. The writer initially struggled with a therapist's methods and later found a new therapist who became skeptical. Influenced by books, particularly Ian Hacking's work, the writer reestablished contact with family and accepted responsibility for past false accusations. The writer also feels the therapist who initially diagnosed them should take responsibility for poor treatment. The writer mentions being misdiagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and bipolar illness in the past.

Accusing Daughter Returns but Brothers Still Alienated A member of FMSF since 1992 recounts receiving a letter from her 34-year-old daughter in 1992, who claimed to have MPD caused by childhood trauma. The daughter's letter was co-signed by her husband and three brothers. The family was shut out of the daughter's life for a long time. Two sons later disclosed that their sister had accused her deceased uncle (the writer's brother) of rape, with one of her alter personalities revealing this. The sons believe this accusation because an alter personality supposedly never lied. The writer, however, has convinced her sons that the American Medical Association and the mental health community do not consider recovered memories reliable, though her sons differentiate this from MPD and recovered repressed memories. The writer seeks advice on how to reach her sons.

Don't Give Up Hope A brief message from a father expressing hope for family reconciliation, stating they will be together for Christmas for the first time in 11 years.

Honoring Dr. Campbell Perry This section details a donation made to Concordia University Library in memory of Dr. Campbell Perry (Cam). Dr. Perry was a member of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board and a Distinguished Professor Emeritus in Psychology. The donation will fund new books in memory research and memory processes.

"If repeated trauma is easily 'repressible' why haven't I repressed memories of therapy?" A quote from Jaye Bartha, a retractor from 1992.

Thank You An expression of deep gratitude for the excellent work done, with no words deemed adequate to describe the impact.

Virtues of Past Life Therapy This excerpt discusses past life regression therapy, noting two attractive features: it can extend therapy duration by exploring centuries instead of years, thus increasing costs, and therapists and patients can speculate wildly without fear of factual contradiction.

News and Notices

Intriguing Notice An announcement from the Burlington Free Press (July 6, 2004) about a book burning event, offering free books on psychology, recovery, and other topics.

Notice A group in southwest Virginia is drafting legislation to address the false memory problem and allow families to speak out after separation from relatives. Input is requested from other Virginians affected by false memory syndrome.

FMS Stories Wanted An appeal for FMS-related nonfiction accounts from survivors of False Memory Syndrome for a collection to be published by DEL SOL PRESS. Survivors are defined as patients recovering from therapeutic FMS/MPD abuse, and relatives who have not retracted but admit harm.

The Rutherford Family Speaks to FMS Families This section promotes a video about the Rutherford family's experience with accusation, retraction, and reconciliation. It highlights Beth Rutherford's comments on her family's process of retraction and return. The video is available in DVD format.

Elizabeth Loftus has moved her web site to: Information about Elizabeth Loftus's new web site at UCI.

Resources

Web Sites of Interest A comprehensive list of websites related to false memory, MPD, SRA, and related topics, including academic research sites, support groups, and legal resources.

Legal Web Sites of Interest A list of legal websites for research and assistance.

Hungry for Monsters This is a summary of a case involving Nicole Althaus, who accused her father of sexual abuse amidst satanic rituals. All charges were eventually dropped, and Nicole admitted her accusations were false. She and her parents later sued the authorities. Information is provided on ordering a VHS about this case.

Contact Information

Bulletin Board This section provides contact information for FMSF meetings and contacts across the United States and internationally, organized by state and country. It also includes the deadline for submitting items for the next newsletter.

FMSF Contact Information Details for the FMS Foundation's main office in Philadelphia, including phone, fax, email, and website. It also lists the ISSN and Executive Director.

Advisory Board A list of members of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board as of January 1, 2005, including their affiliations and credentials.

Your Contribution Will Help Information on how to donate to the FMS Foundation, including options for Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Check/Money Order.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently focuses on the phenomenon of False Memory Syndrome, MPD, and SRA, often presenting narratives of individuals who have retracted such memories and the subsequent challenges of family reconciliation. The publication strongly supports the idea that recovered memories can be unreliable and potentially harmful, advocating for a critical approach to memory claims, especially those arising from therapeutic contexts. The newsletter serves as a platform for sharing personal experiences, providing resources, and fostering a community for those affected by these issues. There is a clear editorial stance against uncritical acceptance of recovered memories and a promotion of professional skepticism and evidence-based approaches to memory and trauma.