Otgaar H, Dodier O, Garry M, Howe ML, Loftus EF, Lynn SJ, Mangiulli I, McNally RJ, Patihis L. Oversimplifications and Misrepresentations in the Repressed Memory Debate: A Reply to Ross.
JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2023;
32:116-126. [PMID:
36229991 DOI:
10.1080/10538712.2022.2133043]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ross argued that false memory researchers misunderstand the concepts of repression and dissociation, as well as the writings of Freud. In this commentary, we show that Ross is wrong. He oversimplifies and misrepresents the literature on repressed and false memory. We rebut Ross by showing the fallacies underlying his arguments. For example, we adduce evidence showing that the notions of dissociation or repression are unnecessary to explain how people may forget and then remember childhood sexual abuse, stressing that abuse survivors may reinterpret childhood events later in life. Also, Ross overlooks previous critiques concerning dissociation. Finally, we will demonstrate that Ross misrepresents work by Freud and Loftus in the area of repressed and false memory. His article confuses, not clarifies, an already heated debate on the existence of repressed memory.
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