NCJ Number
214244
Date Published
2006
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This chapter critically reviews laboratory studies that have examined how people can have "memories" of childhood events that did not occur, the effect of certain "memory recovery" techniques on the accuracy of memory reports, and the possible effects of support groups on what is remembered.
Abstract
The research findings reviewed show that, under certain circumstances (e.g., repeated suggestive interviewing in a psychological laboratory), some people will report that they remember events that did not occur. Additional research is required to determine the characteristics of the individuals or their circumstances that stimulate false-memory reports that can be detailed and compelling. Techniques sometimes used by therapists to help clients access memories of events and experiences that occurred in childhood, such as hypnotherapy, can also result in the client having false beliefs about what occurred in the past; however, research has not yet determined whether specific personal characteristics and/or techniques of recall may make some persons more susceptible to false memories than others. Also, a review of recent evidence suggests that participating in support groups may create social pressures for individuals to alter memories to conform with group expectations and needs. Research to date suggests that memories first brought to consciousness years after the events or experiences they purport to recall are at best distorted recollections of what actually occurred, and at worst a construction in the mind, albeit perhaps vivid and detailed, of events that never happened. 3 notes and 138 references