Survivor Psychology The Dark Side of a Mental Health Mission

Summary: While working toward her Master's degree in Counseling & Human Resources, Susan Smith researched current treatment theories for sexual abuse & incest. She interviewed 38 therapists who claimed to specialize in recognizing sexual abuse issues, diagnosing "repressed memories" & treating sexual abuse survivors. Naivete about situational dynamics, emotional manipulation, influence & the power of authority was endemic to ...the sample. Further research revealed that the problems of scientific illiteracy & therapeutic incompetence are widespread. Many mental health practitioners, from those without degrees to those with Ph.D.s & M.D.s, are using a system of theory & therapy with common elements that Susan Smith has identified as "survivor psychology." The system is based on myth, superstition, folklore & folk psychology, & incorporates powerful persuasion techniques, sales psychology & aggressive therapeutic modalities. Susan Smith presents the survey results & analyzes the social trends, the belief systems, the internal logic of the system & the techniques used by practitioners & promoters of survivor psychology. Distributed by Baker & Taylor, Ingram, Brodart, & The Distributors, or order direct from Upton Books, an imprint of SIRS, Inc., P.O. Box 2348, Boca Raton, FL 33427-2348; 800-232-7477; FAX 407-994-4704. [read more]