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Question

I have had some difficulty with pelvic pain for several months and doctors have yet to pinpoint a cause. One doctor referred me to a therapist who suggested to me that the pain might be a "body memory" related to childhood sexual abuse. I have no memory of such a thing and am not comfortable returning to that therapist. Any suggestions?

Answer

Your question touches on an area of great controversy at this time. There are two schools of thought on this matter. One is that apparently espoused by this therapist -- that memories of trauma can be blocked out completely only to resurface as symptoms in adult life. The other position argues that this is not possible and that so-called recovered memories are planted in patients' minds by unscrupulous therapists.

I am uncomfortable with a therapist who approaches this area with an air of certainty such as this therapist apparently did. The reality, as with so many controversies, appears to be that both positions present an element of truth. There are indeed some well-documented cases wherein memories resurface spontaneously in adult life. The exposure of the patterns of sexual abuse by Father Porter up in Massachusetts and in New Mexico appears to be such a case. I also witnessed a father admit an incident of sexual abuse to his daughter only to be told later by her that she had no recollection of the incident.

On the other hand, we also know that memory is a fragile vessel subject to suggestion and distortion. There are several well-documented cases of therapists, either with or without the use of hypnosis, putting pressure on individuals to have memories of sexual abuse. The recovery of such memories is suspect.

What I'd suggest, then, is this. Follow up with another therapist and explore what you do remember of your childhood to see if there is any known patterns of dysfunction that might be a source of distress to you. This therapist might also be able to help you explore any other sources of stress which might contribute to your physical discomfort. Discuss the issue of recovered memories with the therapist. (Unless he/she has been living on another planet or is professionally out of touch, he/she will know what you are talking about). If he/she approaches such issues with an investment only in fostering self-understanding and healing and does not appear invested in the "certainty" of sexual abuse, then you're probably on safe ground.

03/15/98

Richard B. Patterson is a clinical psychologist in private practice in El Paso, TX. He is the author of three books on psychology and spirituality.