False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 15 No 04 - 2006 julyaug

Magazine Overview

This issue of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF) Newsletter, dated July/AUGUST 2006, Volume 15, Number 4, addresses the ongoing debate surrounding recovered memories. The publication critiques the public and media's difficulty in distinguishing between belief and scientific evidence concerning false memories. It highlights the FMSF's commentary on a 1995 British Psychological Society (BPS) report and questions whether professional organizations like the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association are re-examining their positions in light of a decade of new research.

The Recovered Memory Debate and Scientific Evidence

The lead article discusses an article by Wright and colleagues, which notes that earlier professional statements on recovered memories were based on studies not specifically designed to address the debate. The new understanding includes the fact that memories can be implanted, some individuals are more suggestible, and certain techniques can increase the likelihood of memory implantation. The authors pose the question of how history will judge psychology and psychiatry based on their use of science to inform this debate.

Elizabeth Loftus is quoted stating that there is no credible scientific evidence to prove the existence of repressed memories, and that claims of such memories have ruined hundreds of families. David Clohessy is also quoted expressing the pain of having the existence of repressed memories doubted by the mental health community.

Rhea Farberman, executive director for public communications at the American Psychological Association, is cited stating that while a memory could conceivably be repressed and recovered, it is unlikely, and it is far more likely that someone confidently believes they remember something that never occurred, as memory is very fallible. She later clarified that the APA's position is that it is possible for memories of abuse to be remembered, and she described the community's attitude as cautious but supportive.

Legal Cases and Implications

The newsletter details several legal cases that highlight the complexities of recovered memory claims:

• Wisconsin: A third-party lawsuit against therapists and a hospital for recovered-memory practices is proceeding. The case hinges on access to therapy records, with a judge ordered to review them in camera to determine if they contain evidence of harmful practices. This case has been ongoing for over a decade.
• Missouri: The Missouri Supreme Court has potentially opened the door for repressed memory cases by ruling that the statute of limitations may be tolled if a person did not know of the abuse or its harm at the time the statute would normally apply. This decision could lead to vast legal and financial resources being diverted from current cases.
• Ohio: The Ohio Supreme Court ruled that a person could not bring a lawsuit against the Catholic Church for childhood abuse if they did not allege repressed memory.

Ryan Ferguson Case

The case of Ryan Ferguson, convicted of second-degree murder and first-degree robbery based on the recovered memories of his friend Craig Erickson, is presented as an example of how recovered memories can be used in legal proceedings. The interrogation tapes of Erickson suggest that details of the crime may have been fed to him by investigators, raising questions about the reliability of his testimony.

Father Robinson Case

Father Gerald Robinson was convicted of murdering Sister Margaret Ann Pahl. The case was reopened after a woman claimed to have recovered memories of ritual abuse by priests, including Father Robinson. The trial focused on the murder charge rather than the satanic cult aspects, with prosecutors arguing it was a rage killing. The defense argued the original investigation was botched and that DNA evidence excluded Robinson.

Johnson vs. Rogers Memorial Hospital

This case involves parents suing therapists and a hospital for malpractice related to their daughter's recovered memories of childhood abuse. The central issue is the access to the daughter's therapy records, with the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that a judge could decide if they should be made available to the parents.

Research on Memory and Trauma

Elke Geraerts' Research

Ph.D. dissertation by Elke Geraerts is discussed, inspired by the work of Susan Clancy and Richard McNally. Geraerts' studies suggest that repression is not a necessary explanation for recovered memory experiences. She proposes that people might develop a false impression of amnesia, and that memories can be gradually recalled or suddenly recalled. Her research indicates that the notion of repression of trauma may be a clinical myth.

Contrasting Memory Types

A chart from the book "The Secret Trauma: Incest in the Lives of Girls and Women" by Diana E. H. Russell is presented, contrasting characteristics of "Retrieved, Then Retracted, Memories" with "Continuous Memories" of incestuous abuse. Key differences include the typical perpetrators named (fathers vs. stepfathers), the nature of the abuse (rape vs. non-rape), the duration and frequency, and the impact on the individual during therapy.

Other Noteworthy Items

• Aaron Beck Award: Aaron T. Beck received the 2006 Adolf Meyer Award from the American Psychiatric Association for his work in cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Sybil Remake: The upcoming CBS remake of "Sybil" is mentioned, with concerns that if the story is presented as highly factual, it could increase confusion about recovered memories.
• Newsletter Distribution: The FMSF is transitioning to electronic distribution of its newsletter starting in 2007, with plans to offer printed versions for those without internet access.
• "The Onion" Article: An article from "The Onion" satirizing a therapist who helped a patient recover an entire "Rockford Files" episode as a repressed memory is highlighted.
• Multiple Personality Disorder: A theory by Bert de Wildt suggests that internet roleplaying games could lead to the development of multiple personalities, challenging the long-held belief that child abuse is the sole cause.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently emphasizes the fallibility of memory and the potential for recovered memories to be inaccurate or implanted. The editorial stance is critical of the uncritical acceptance of recovered memories, particularly in legal contexts, and advocates for a greater reliance on scientific evidence. There is a clear concern that the recovered memory phenomenon has been detrimental to the mental health field and has contributed to significant family and legal distress. The publication aims to educate its readers about the scientific research and legal developments related to false and recovered memories, encouraging a skeptical approach to claims that lack robust empirical support.

The FMS Foundation Newsletter, Volume 15, Issue 4, published in July/August 2006, is a 15-page issue focused on issues related to False Memory Syndrome, child abuse, and family estrangement. The publication is from the FMS Foundation, a 501(c)3 corporation.

Family Status Updates

The issue begins with a "Snapshot of the Status of Families in One FMSF Group" dated April 26, 2006, compiled by Tom Rutherford. This section provides brief updates on nine families, detailing their situations regarding 'returners' (individuals who have returned to the family or faith after a period of estrangement), sibling bitterness, and ongoing struggles with therapy or relationships. For instance, Family 1 has a 'returner' planning a family affair, but siblings have bitterness. Family 3 has a 'returner' with a good relationship with their daughter but no contact with others. Family 4's older daughter communicates marginally, while the younger one recently expressed love after 23 years of waiting. Family 6's children are distant, and the family is seeking grandparent visitation rights. Family 7 has had recent contact with a daughter, but the son-in-law is worsening, and a divorce is in process. Family 8 lost three daughters to a "sick lie" but two have returned; the youngest of nine remains distant. Family 9 saw all daughters return, recant, and be restored by 1995, a situation the author uses as a prayer for others.

Personal Letters and Reflections

A section titled "If Your Alienated Child Would Read Your Letter, What Would You Write?" includes a poignant letter from a mother to her daughter, referred to as "L." The mother reflects on thirty years of love and the pain of estrangement, which has lasted five and a half years. Despite the daughter's semi-return, she remains distant. The mother expresses a deep wish to discuss memories with an open heart, setting aside bitterness, and to heal as a family.

Another section presents "Before and After Letters" from a daughter to her father. The "Before" letter expresses love and admiration for her father. The "After" letter, written 45 years later, reveals that the daughter was sexually abused by her father for years. She states that she no longer understands why she felt flawed and shamed, and that she has faced the truth with the help of ministers, therapists, and experts. She declares that he is not her family but a sperm donor and that she is leaving home.

Conference Information

The issue announces the "13th International Conference National Child Abuse Defense & Resource Center: Child Abuse Allegations: Science vs. Junk Science in the Courtroom," to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from September 28-30, 2006. The conference is designed for legal professionals, judges, and investigators dealing with child abuse cases. The program includes sessions on ethics, interviewing children, abuse disclosure, vaccines vs. violence, Munchausen syndrome by proxy, medical findings, ethical considerations, coerced confessions, pediatric injuries, head injury, pediatric neurotrauma, and medical examiners' roles. Notable speakers include Doug Peters, Zachary Bravos, Debra Poole, Kamala London, F. Edward Yazbak, Loren Pankratz, Stephen Guertin, Kathleen Coyne, Richard Ofshe, Anthony Shaw, Mark Herbst, Ronald Uscinisk, Faris Bandak, Kris Sperry, Piero Rinaldo, and Lori Frasier. A quote from Barry Scheck, Esq., emphasizes the uniqueness of child abuse cases and the need to stay current with research.

Resources and Publications

A comprehensive list of "Web Sites of Interest" is provided, covering topics such as Satanic Panics, False Memory Syndrome, memory research, and child abuse resources. Several legal websites are also listed.

"The Rutherford Family Speaks to FMS Families" is highlighted, promoting a DVD that covers the family's story of accusation, retraction, and reconciliation, with a focus on Beth Rutherford's experience.

Recommended books are listed: "Remembering Trauma" by Richard McNally, "Science and Pseudoscience in Clinical Psychology" edited by S. O. Lilienfeld et al., and "Psychology Astray: Fallacies in Studies of 'Repressed Memory' and Childhood Trauma" by Harrison G. Pope, Jr., M.D.

Susan A. Clancy's book, "ABDUCTED: How People Come to Believe They Were Kidnapped by Aliens," is reviewed. The review highlights Clancy's research on false memories and the psychological needs that can lead individuals to believe they have been abducted by aliens. A quote from Clancy emphasizes how confusion between imagination and reality can create false memories.

Bulletin Board and Contacts

The newsletter includes a "BULLETIN BOARD" section with contacts and meeting information for FMSF groups across the United States, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Israel, New Zealand, and Sweden. This section provides names, phone numbers, and meeting details for various local chapters and affiliated organizations.

Foundation Information and Support

The final pages provide contact information for the FMS Foundation, including its address, phone number, fax, and email. It also lists the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board members as of July 1, 2006. The newsletter is published six times a year and is available to those who contribute at least $30.00 or via email and the FMSF website. A section encourages contributions, with options for Visa, Discover, Mastercard, or check/money order, and provides a form for donation details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the impact of false memories, child abuse, and family estrangement. The editorial stance appears to be one of support for individuals and families affected by these issues, providing resources, information, and a platform for sharing experiences. The emphasis on scientific evidence in child abuse cases and the critical examination of psychological phenomena like repressed memory and alien abduction suggest a commitment to evidence-based understanding and combating misinformation.