Reflections on recovered memories: Comment on Patihis and Pendergrast (2019)

Steven Jay Lynn*, Harald Merckelbach, Craig P. Polizzi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalEditorialAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

In this comment on Patihis and Pendergrast (this issue, p. 3), we challenge an assumption that underpins recovered memory therapies: that there exists a close link of traumatic experiences with dissociation. We further suggest that (a) researchers examine how therapists who believe in repressed memories instill this belief in clients and establish expectations that current problems can be interpreted in light of past traumatic experiences, (b) recovered memories could be classified and studied as a function of how events come to light and are interpreted, and (c) therapists routinely provide informed consent regarding recovered memories and suggestive techniques.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)22-24
Number of pages3
JournalClinical Psychological Science
Volume7
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2019

Keywords

  • INFORMED CONSENT
  • DISSOCIATION
  • TRAUMA

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