Recovered memories and clinical practice
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Date
2025
Authors
Carey, Oisín
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
Recovered memories of trauma and abuse remain clinically and theoretically divisive, despite the decline in public controversy since the Memory Wars of the 1990s. This thesis aims to synthesise the contemporary evidence base, explore clinician perspectives, and develop a clinical model for managing recovered memories grounded in cognitive science. A systematic review of 42 empirical studies published since 2000 revealed that recovered memories remain relatively common, but definitional inconsistencies hinder clear prevalence estimates. A qualitative study using reflexive thematic analysis of interviews with seven Irish clinical psychologists found that therapists employ ‘strategic ambiguity’ to navigate the epistemic and ethical challenges posed by recovered memories, often compensating for gaps in professional training. Drawing together insights from memory science and clinical practice, a novel staged-intervention model is proposed to minimise risks of memory distortion while enabling therapeutic engagement with ambiguous memory content. The thesis advocates for improved prevalence research, a practical framework for clinicians, and educational reforms to bridge the persistent scientist-practitioner gap regarding recovered memories.
Description
Keywords
Recovered memories , Dissociative amnesia , False memories , Systematic review , Reflexive thematic analysis
Citation
Carey, O. 2025. Recovered memories and clinical practice. DClinPsych Thesis, University College Cork.