Michael Verde

Memory and false memory

This option will examine how theories of memory and false memory can help us understand memory phenomena in the real world. We will focus specifically on two topics: 1) recovered memories of trauma and sexual abuse in adults; and 2) allegations of false memory in child witnesses to sexual abuse. Using a variety of case studies as starting points for our discussion, we will consider the ethics and the controversies surrounding the application of laboratory-derived theories of false memory to memories of abuse and trauma in adults and children.

Format: Lectures mixed with some in-class discussion. Staying current with readings is essential. Exam topics will involve applying knowledge gained from lectures and readings to a novel case study.

Readings

Garven, S., Wood, J. M., Malpass, R. S., & Shaw, J. S., 3rd. (1998). More than suggestion: the effect of interviewing techniques from the McMartin Preschool case. Journal of Applied Psychology, 83(3), 347–359. https://doi-org.plymouth.idm.oclc.org/10.1037/0021-9010.83.3.347

Freyd, J. J., & Quina, K. (2000). Feminist ethics in the practice of science: The contested memory controversy as an example. In M. M. Brabeck (Ed.), Practicing feminist ethics in psychology (pp. 101–123). American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/10343-005