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From 1992 to 1997, TAT [Treating Abuse Today] under my…

“From 1992 to 1997, TAT [Treating Abuse Today] under my editorship published several articles by a number of respected professionals who seriously questioned the false memory syndrome (FMS) hypothesis and the methodology, ethics, and assertions of those who were rapidly pushing the concept into the…” quote by David L. Calof
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““From 1992 to 1997, TAT [Treating Abuse Today] under my editorship published several articles by a number of respected professionals who seriously questioned the false memory syndrome (FMS) hypothesis and the methodology, ethics, and assertions of those who were rapidly pushing the concept into the public consciousness. During that time, not one person from the FMS movement contacted me to refute the specific points made in the articles or to present any research that would prove even a single case of this allegedly “epidemic” syndrome. Instead of a reasoned response to the published articles, for nearly three years proponents of the so-called FMS hypothesis–including members, officials, and supporters of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation, Inc. (FMSF)–have waged a campaign of harassment, defamation, and psychological terrorism against me, my clients, staff, family, and other innocent people connected with me. These clearly are intended to (a) intimidate me and anyone associated with me; (b) terrorize and deter access to my psychotherapy clients; (c) encumber my resources; and (d) destroy my reputation publicly, in the business community, among my professional colleagues, and within national and international professional organizations. Before describing this highly orchestrated campaign, let me emphasize that I have never treated any member of this group or their families, and do not have any relationships to any of my counseling clients. Neither have I consulted to their cases nor do I bear any relation to the disclosures of memories of sexual abuse in their families. I had no prior dealings with any of this group before they began showing up at my offices with offensive and defamatory signs early in 1995. Ethics and Behavior, 8(2) pp. 161-187 ””

David L. Calof

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author details a sustained harassment campaign by false‑memory proponents, highlighting ethical breaches and personal attacks.

In simple terms: False‑memory advocates harassed the author and others, raising ethical concerns.

Key Takeaway

Beware of organized harassment in controversial debates.

Themes

ethics professional integrity harassment

Mood

cautious defensive

Type

analytical critical

When to use this quote

  • academic conferences
  • legal proceedings
  • media interviews
  • patient advocacy

Key Concepts

false memory syndrome defamation psychology research

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should professionals respond to hostile criticism?
  • What safeguards protect researchers from defamation?
A Different Perspective

The account may reflect personal bias; broader context is needed.

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