Recovered-memory therapy

Recovered-memory therapy is a psychotherapy technique that was developed in the late 20th century. It is based on the premise that many mental health problems are the result of repressed memories of traumatic events, particularly childhood sexual abuse. The goal of recovered-memory therapy is to bring these repressed memories to conscious awareness, with the belief that this will alleviate the patient's psychological distress.

History

Recovered-memory therapy emerged in the 1980s and 1990s, during a period of increased public awareness and concern about child sexual abuse. It was influenced by earlier psychoanalytic theories about the role of repressed memories in mental illness, as well as by contemporary research on memory and trauma.

Techniques

Techniques used in recovered-memory therapy may include hypnosis, guided imagery, and the use of drugs to facilitate memory recall. Some therapists also use suggestive questioning techniques, which have been criticized for their potential to create false memories.

Controversy

Recovered-memory therapy is highly controversial. Critics argue that the techniques used can lead to the creation of false memories, and that there is little scientific evidence to support the existence of repressed memories. There have been numerous legal cases involving accusations of child sexual abuse based on recovered memories, some of which have resulted in substantial financial settlements.

See also

• False memory syndrome
• Memory and trauma
• Psychotherapy
• Child sexual abuse

References

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