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Memory recovery and repression: what is the evidence?
F A Goodyear-Smith1, T M Laidlaw, R G Large
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Science, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
Summary
This study challenges repressed traumatic memory theory and its retrieval methods. Recovered memories, especially in abuse allegations, may be unreliable without corroborating evidence, necessitating caution in clinical and legal settings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Memory Studies
Background:
- The theory of repressed traumatic memories suggests that deeply distressing events can be unconsciously blocked from awareness.
- Techniques for recovering these memories, often used in therapeutic settings, have faced scrutiny regarding their scientific validity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine the scientific basis of repressed memory theory.
- To evaluate the reliability of memory retrieval techniques, particularly in cases of alleged sexual abuse.
Main Methods:
- A survey of New Zealand families where allegations of sexual abuse were based on recovered memories.
- Analysis of the probability of events described in these allegations.
Main Results:
- A significant number of allegations based on recovered memories involved events with very low probability.
- The scientific substantiation for memory repression theory is found to be lacking.
Conclusions:
- Recovered memories, especially those recalled during therapy, should be treated as potentially metaphorical and not factual without corroborating evidence.
- Clinicians must inform patients about the experimental nature, potential adverse effects, and obtain consent before using memory recovery techniques.