The authenticity of memories of childhood sexual abuse has become one of the major social controversies of the 1990's. As persons who report histories of abuse have sought remedies in civil and criminal proceedings in the courts, the accuracy of their memories--particularly when they have been recalled after a period of time--has been subject to intense scrutiny.
This volume brings together many of the leading participants in the debate to provide a comprehensive picture of the psychological, physiological, and legal aspects of trauma. Beginning by defining the opposing positions in the debate, the contributors then offer a variety of perspectives on the nature of memory, including reviews of some of the most exciting recent developments in this fast-growing area of investigation. Next, consideration is given to the impact of trauma on memory, both in adults and in children. With this framework in place, the authors turn to an examination of the variety of treatment approaches available to victims of trauma, who are trying to cope with the painful consequences of those events. The book argues against a unidimensional approach to trauma, calling instead for a multidisciplinary synthesis that includes developmental, neurobiological, cognitive, and psychodynamic perspectives. Chapters address the legal dilemmas for patients, mental health
professionals and society as a whole that have arisen from the trauma and memory controversy. Most importantly, the editors shift the focus of their discussion from the laboratory to the courtroom and from the research journal to the psychotherapist's office, looking at the issues from every relevant angle.
This is the only book in the field to treat the trauma and memory controversy comprehensively, from basic research on memory processes through clinical approaches to legal and policy issues. Trauma and Memory is a valuable tool for clinicians treating patients with traumatic memories. It is also intended for psychologists, physicians, social workers and lawyers who need a comprehensive reference on trauma and sexual abuse during childhood.
Industry Reviews
"Calm books about turbulent topics are appealing, Trauma and Memory succeeds on many grounds and contains excellent chapters....Trauma and Memory is a widely helpful book..."--Am J Psychiatry
"Finally, here is an excellent middle-of-the-road book written on the false memory syndrome (FMS)/trauma and memory controversy. When so much of what has been written by FMS proponents is boringly repetitive and lacking in logic, originality, or scientific rigor, here is a volume which stands out in its depth and originality, and which will wet the appetites of both clinicians and researchers alike....The book ends with a superbly written, middle-of-the-road
summary of the debate on trauma and memory by co-editor Paul Appelbaum. This chapter should be required introductory reading to all students of the trauma/memory debate. Overall, Trauma and Memory is
an excellent buy....Unlike previously published works on the recovered memory debate, this volume is not one sided."--American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
"A broad overview...Its three editors and 30-some authors are among the wisest in the land when it comes to trauma, memory, and their clinical and legal implications....Trauma and Memory is an important book because it documents our current state of understanding. It should be read by both clinicians and researchers who are hoping to understand how victims of trauma forget, remember, cope, and survive."--William Bernet, MD, JAMA
"A balanced, thorough, and up-to-date review of the state of knowledge and the current controversies in this area...This comprehensive, well planned volume provides a scholarly and useful overview of a controversial subject...Current and useful references...highly detailed index."--Doody's Journal
"...a consistent and elevated level of scholarship. The breadth and depth of the material will be challenging to any professional."--Contemporary Psychology
"Seldom does an edited book reach the level of quality of this 552-page volume. The contributors have produced 22 chapters of relevant material, nicely organized, clearly written, and well founded in professional and scientific research....This book is about as good a one-volume resource for the diverse viewpoints and relevant science and practice concerns in responding to memory and trauma as is available anywhere."--Issues in Child Abuse Accusations
