With regard to memory, the human brain functions neither like a computer nor a video camera. Memories, says Dr. Michael D Yapko, are more a function of reconstruction than reproduction. Many factors affect memory, and detailed memories, accompanied by strong emotions, can readily be obtained through hypnotic suggestion --even when such memories have no basis in fact. Dr. Yapko reviews the psychotherapeutic interactions that often lead to a diagnosis of childhood sexual abuse and enumerates various therapeutic pitfalls.

Michael Yapko, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and author of Trancework and Suggestions of Abuse: True and False Memories of Childhood Sexual Trauma.