Childhood Trauma Remembered: A Report on the Current Scientific Knowledge Base and Its Applications

This article was developed by the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) to inform professionals and the public about the complex and important issues that are involved in the current controversy about memories of childhood sexual abuse. It addresses the questions of childhood trauma, traumatic memory, the memory process, clinical issues and forensic implications pertaining to this controversy. We have tried to present a balanced review of these issues. As an international organization dedicated to promoting the best research and education in this field, we believe it essential that people who grapple with this controversial topic be equipped with the most accurate and comprehensive information possible. We hope that this article helps serve this purpose.