NCJ Number
174848
Journal
Judicial Review Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: September 1997 Pages: 163-199
Date Published
1997
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This article examines the empirical basis for the existence of alleged false memory syndrome (FMS) and the scientific evidence on the phenomenon of delayed recall of child sexual abuse memories.
Abstract
Studies indicate that delayed recall of traumatic events has been widely documented but that such findings in the area of child sexual abuse have been controversial. The author considers the nature of traumatic memories, how science explains the phenomenon of traumatic amnesia, characteristics of recovered memories, empirical versus ideological evidence, and the ideological basis of the claim that recovered child sexual abuse memories are false. Citing evidence from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, the author concludes the criminal justice system needs to adjust to deal with the extent of child sexual abuse and the reality of the phenomenon of recovered child sexual abuse memories. 167 footnotes