False Memory Syndrome Foundation - Vol 16 No 02 - 2007 spring

Magazine Overview

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue: Vol. 16 No. 2
Date: Spring 2007

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter provides updates on the organization's activities, legal cases involving its advisors, and reviews of recent research in the field of memory and trauma.

In Memoriam: Harold I. Lief

The newsletter begins with sad news of the death of Harold Lief, MD, a founding member of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board. Dr. Lief was a courageous advocate for cautioning people against the uncritical acceptance of claims of abuse based on repressed memories. His work, particularly his professional and courteous engagement with the topic, had a powerful effect on increasing awareness of the problems of memory recovery techniques. The newsletter recalls an incident in 1993 where radical "feminist" hecklers prevented him from presenting at McGill University, an event that ironically generated significant publicity for the Foundation.

Legal Case: Taus v. Loftus

Good news is reported regarding the case against FMSF Scientific Advisor Elizabeth Loftus, Ph.D. The California Supreme Court dismissed all but one charge in the lawsuit filed by Nicole Taus, who identified herself as "Jane Doe" from a 2002 article. Taus is required to pay Loftus's legal expenses for the dismissed charges. The case originated from an article by David Corwin and Erna Olafson in 1997, which documented a person claiming to have repressed and recovered memories of abuse. Loftus and coauthor Melvin Guyer investigated the case and arrived at a different conclusion, leading to an ethical complaint against Loftus, which she was exonerated from, though her records were confiscated for two years. The lawsuit alleged invasion of privacy and other claims. The California Supreme Court ruled that most claims were properly struck under the anti-SLAPP statute, emphasizing the importance of protecting free speech. The remaining charge against Loftus involves misrepresenting her relationship to Corwin during an interview with Taus's former foster mother. Loftus's attorney is confident she will prevail. Loftus has expressed concern that the legal proceedings have overshadowed the voice of the mother who lost custody of her child, believing the mother was wrongly accused.

Canadian Supreme Court Ruling

Further good news is the decision by the Canadian Supreme Court that memories enhanced by hypnosis are scientifically and legally unreliable and should not be allowed in criminal trials. The situation in the United States varies by state.

Article Reviews and Research

The newsletter features several article reviews, highlighting recent research that advances the understanding of recovered memories.

"Proposing Marriage to A Pepsi Machine"

This section reviews a study by Seamon et al. published in *Psychonomic Bulletin & Review* that demonstrates how imagining events, even bizarre ones, during a campus walk can lead to false recollections of having performed them. The study extends previous research on imagination inflation into real-life settings.

"What Is Known About Recovered Memories?"

This review by Kimberly Wade discusses a chapter by Steven Smith and David Gleaves in *The Handbook of Eyewitness Psychology*. The chapter examines research on how the brain might repress and recover information, including work on retrieval-induced forgetting and interference. It defines recovered memory based on three conditions: encoding, inaccessibility, and return to consciousness. The review notes that the chapter discusses clinical issues and frequently asked questions about repressed and recovered memories, including the consensus that traumatic memories may differ from non-traumatic ones, though disagreements exist on whether repression and dissociation are natural coping mechanisms or if traumatic experiences are unlikely to be forgotten. The review highlights that the chapter fails to discuss criticisms of long-term forgetting research and the extensive literature on false memories.

"Does Trauma Affect Children's Basic Memory Processes?"

This section reviews articles by Howe, Toth, and Cicchetti. The authors surveyed research on memory processes in children and found little evidence that chronic stress from child abuse adversely affects basic memory processes like encoding, storage, retrieval, and retention. Maltreated children's memory processes do not reliably differ from non-maltreated children. The research challenges theories that suggest children with PTSD or dissociation have poorer memories, and it questions the idea that "the body remembers" trauma through state-dependent memories, arguing that stress hormones enhance memory consolidation and that implicit memories do not reveal their source.

"The Repressed Memories Challenge"

This section discusses a study by Pope et al. in *Psychological Medicine* that investigated the historical prevalence of repressed memories. The "Repressed Memory Challenge" offered $1,000 for examples of repressed memories in works published before 1800. Despite extensive searching, no such examples were found, leading the authors to hypothesize that dissociative amnesia might be a culture-bound phenomenon, flourishing in modern Western culture rather than being an innate, naturally occurring phenomenon.

"Does Trauma Cause Dissociative Symptoms?"

This review of Merckelbach and Muris examines the causal link between self-reported trauma and dissociation. The authors found that many studies assume dissociation is caused by trauma, but the evidence is not robust. Some studies suggest that other variables, like family pathology, may be involved, and that personality features associated with dissociation (like fantasy proneness and suggestibility) might bias retrospective self-reports of trauma, potentially encouraging self-reported traumatic experiences rather than being caused by them.

Correction: Family Histories

A correction is issued regarding the organization Laura Pasley is working with. She is a consultant for Heritage Makers, a company that helps families write their histories, not the organization previously mentioned.

Barbara W. Snow Investigation

The newsletter reports that Utah's Professional Licensing division has filed an action against Barbara W. Snow, alleging unprofessional conduct. Snow was a coauthor of influential papers in the early 1990s that fueled the satanic ritual abuse scare and child sexual abuse disclosure research. The article cites a judge's critique of her interrogation techniques, noting her admission of bias and assumption of abuse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The FMS Foundation Newsletter consistently advocates for a critical examination of recovered memory claims and therapies. The editorial stance emphasizes skepticism towards the uncritical acceptance of repressed memories, highlighting research that questions the reliability of memory retrieval, particularly under hypnosis or therapeutic suggestion. The newsletter champions scientific rigor and free speech, often featuring legal cases and research reviews that challenge prevailing narratives in the field of memory and trauma. There is a clear focus on debunking or providing alternative explanations for phenomena often attributed to repressed memories, such as dissociative amnesia, and advocating for the protection of those falsely accused of abuse.

Title: FMS Foundation Newsletter
Issue: Vol. 16 No. 2
Date: Spring 2007
Publisher: FMS Foundation
Country: USA
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the FMS Foundation Newsletter delves into complex issues surrounding memory, trauma, and justice, with a strong focus on the impact of false memory syndrome and recovered memory therapy.

Growing Up With A Mom Obsessed by Satanic Cults

The lead article, "Growing Up With A Mom Obsessed by Satanic Cults," by Bishop, B. (February 13, 2007, The Register-Guard), tells the story of Hannah Caron. Caron experienced a traumatic childhood as the "only child of a mentally ill woman" who believed they were involved in ritual abuse by a cult. This led to frequent moves (52 times in 15 years), periods in foster homes, running away, and drug use. After receiving treatment in a mental hospital and support from friends and family, Caron was able to move forward. She states that the ritual abuse "never wasn't true for me" and "always was a component of my life," causing her mother to be unable to function due to fears. Caron still experiences nightmares but no longer lives in constant fear. She now works with severely abused children, teaches self-defense, and is pursuing a psychology degree. The article references the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACE Study) and the Trauma Healing Project. Elaine Walters, head of the Trauma Healing Project, is quoted saying that "some people use alcohol to keep from reliving experiences that they may not even consciously remember."

Following this personal account is a commentary by Adriaan Mak, who critiques "sloppy thinkers" involved in recovered memory therapy and the "Dissociation Circuit." He notes that these therapists often work with deeply troubled clients, whose problems are aggravated by misguided ministrations. The commentary references an article by Joost Niemöller from De Groene Amsterdammer.

The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study

This section summarizes the study "Relationship of Childhood Abuse and Household Dysfunction to Many of the Leading Causes of Death in Adults" by Felitti V.J., Anda R.F., et al. (1998), published in Am. J. Prev. Me. The study surveyed 13,494 adults and found that the more categories of adverse childhood experiences (physical, sexual, or psychological abuse, and household dysfunction like substance abuse, mental illness, suicide attempts, or imprisonment) a person reported, the greater their likelihood of adult multiple health risk factors. These risk factors included smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, depressed mood, suicide attempts, alcoholism, drug abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases. Disease conditions included ischemic heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, hepatitis, and skeletal fractures. The authors acknowledge limitations such as self-report and retrospective data, but the press release implies causality, suggesting that child abuse and household dysfunction lead to chronic diseases. The newsletter criticizes this implication, stating it violates basic psychological principles and that association does not prove causation, while affirming that child abuse is wrong regardless of consequences.

Legal Corner

Pittsburgh Area Man Again Convicted of Murder

This article details the case of Steven Slutzker, who was convicted of first-degree murder for the second time in the 1975 slaying of John Mudd, Sr. The first conviction in 1992 was overturned by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals due to ineffective assistance of counsel. In the new trial, which began January 11, 2007, the primary evidence was the recovered memory of the victim's son, who was five at the time of the murder. The son testified to a flashback of seeing Slutzker leave the basement shortly after his father was shot. The motive for the murder was suggested to be Slutzker's affair with Mudd's wife. The defense presented alibi witnesses, but the prosecution highlighted issues with their credibility. The jury deliberated for 8 hours and found Slutzker guilty, resulting in a life sentence. The article notes the involvement of Daniel E. Fitzsimmons, David S. Shrager, and Judge Jeffrey A. Manning, and provides links to further information from the Innocence Institute of Point Park University and news articles.

Canadian Supreme Court Bars Hypnosis-based Testimony

This section reports on the Canadian Supreme Court's ruling in R. v. Trochym (February 1, 2007), which barred the use of hypnotically enhanced testimony in criminal trials due to its unreliability. Canada is described as the first country in the English criminal-law tradition to place a total ban on such evidence, though hypnosis can still be used as an investigative tool with corroboration. The majority opinion, written by Justice Marie Deschamps, cited inconclusive studies and the potential for memory distortion. Dissenting justices argued that juries are capable of weighing potential frailties in memory. The article notes that New Jersey also excludes hypnotically enhanced evidence, joining 26 other states.

From Our Readers

Giving Back

This section features a story about "Dee," who retracted her accusation of satanic and sexual abuse against her grandfather eight years after making it. Feeling she needed to make amends, Dee accepted an invitation to speak to counseling students at Portland Bible College. She shared her experience with "false memory" counseling, explaining how her memories were implanted by a counselor she saw weekly for ten months. Her presentation was well-received by the students, who were learning about counseling techniques. Dee recommended the book "Second Thoughts" by Dr. Paul Simpson as an eye-opener.

Accountability

This piece, written by a psychiatric social worker, details experiences with psychiatric services gone awry, specifically concerning diagnoses of MPD based on repressed memories. The author describes how women with neurobiological disorders were convinced by a psychiatrist and therapists that they had repressed memories. This therapy often led to psychosis and suicidal behavior, with patients returning to inpatient units unable to function. The author criticizes the therapists for being "above" case management and for people with severe mental illness and for misallocating resources. The author believes these therapists were poorly trained and directly responsible for disempowering women and defrauding healthcare systems. The piece mentions that some practitioners have been reassigned or no longer practice RMT, though the psychiatrist involved was eventually forced out of his position and relocated.

A Wonderful Return

This is a personal account from Claudia Dabbs, MSW, about her daughter, "Dee," who, after nearly ten years of no contact, met with her accused father. The meeting was described as an "ordinary" friendly visit, with no mention of the past tragedy. Since then, the family has reunited twice, and the grandfather is getting to know his granddaughter. The author expresses gratitude to the FMSF and its newsletter for providing crucial information and ongoing encouragement, especially through the "From Our Readers" section, which offered hope to grieving parents.

The Passing of Ray Souza

This article by Frank Kane commemorates Ray Souza, who, along with his wife Shirley, was featured in a 1993 Newsweek article accusing them of molesting their grandchildren. The article details the legal proceedings, including a bench trial conviction by Judge Elizabeth Dolan based on what the author calls "spurious evidence" coerced from the grandchildren. Despite constitutional rights being violated, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court upheld the trial. The Souzas were placed under house arrest for nine years. The article highlights the role of the grandchildren's testimony, particularly the youngest daughter's "disclosed" repressed memory of sexual abuse. It draws parallels to the Fells Acres Case involving the Amirault Family. Ray Souza is described as stoic and unable to understand how his loved ones could make such accusations. After their house arrest ended in 2002, Ray faced illness. The article notes that some members of the extended Souza family still refuse to accept the sons back. A quote from Ray in 1995 expresses his belief in their innocence and hope for vindication. The article concludes by reflecting on Ray's quiet strength and quoting from the Sermon on the Mount.

Help Needed

Louise Turner, a member of the British False Memory Society and a retractor, is conducting research for her Sociology module at the University of Derby. She is seeking participants for a questionnaire about patterns and trends identified by those affected by False Memory Syndrome. The questionnaire is confidential and anonymized. Participants can withdraw at any time. Contact information is provided for those who wish to receive a copy of the report. Links to Turner's survey and personal story are also included.

Hungry for Monsters

This section announces the re-release of the 2003 film "Hungry for Monsters" by George Csicsery on DVD. The film explores the background of recovered memories in the Althaus case, where a 15-year-old girl accused her father of sexual abuse amidst bizarre satanic rituals. Initially believed, the girl later admitted her accusations were false after her family reconciled. The film covers the subsequent lawsuit against the authorities. The DVD is available through Facets MultiMedia and can be rented on Netflix. It has also been acquired by Teachers TV in the UK.

Web Sites of Interest

A comprehensive list of websites related to false memory syndrome, satanic ritual abuse, skepticism, and legal resources is provided.

Recommended Books

Several books are recommended, including "Remembering Trauma" by Richard McNally, "Science and Pseudoscience in Clinical Psychology" (eds. Lilienfeld, Lynn, Lohr), and "Psychology Astray: Fallacies in Studies of 'Repressed Memory' and Childhood Trauma" by Harrison G. Pope, Jr.

Bulletin Board: Contacts & Meetings - United States

This section provides a directory of FMS Foundation contacts and meeting locations across the United States, organized by state. It includes names, phone numbers, and meeting times/frequencies where applicable.

Bulletin Board: Contacts & Meetings - International

This section lists international contacts and meetings for the FMS Foundation, including listings for British Columbia, Canada; Manitoba, Canada; Ontario, Canada; Quebec, Canada; Australia; Belgium; Israel; New Zealand; Sweden; and the United Kingdom.

Copyright and Contact Information

The final pages contain copyright information for the FMS Foundation, contact details for Pamela Freyd (Executive Director), and a list of the FMSF Scientific and Professional Advisory Board members as of April 1, 2007. It also includes information on how to receive electronic versions of the newsletter and how to contribute to the Foundation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the devastating impact of false memories, the unreliability of recovered memory therapy, the legal ramifications of such cases, and the importance of critical evaluation of psychological claims. The FMS Foundation's stance is clearly critical of recovered memory therapy and its practitioners, advocating for accountability and highlighting cases where allegations have been proven false or unsubstantiated. The newsletter also emphasizes the importance of support for families affected by these issues and promotes a skeptical approach to claims of repressed memories, particularly when they lead to accusations of abuse and legal proceedings. There is a consistent emphasis on the need for scientific rigor and ethical practice in psychology.