"Allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those based on the recovery of supposed "repressed memories" of abuse, have reached incredible proportions. The result has been devastation for many. Why is this happening?" "Alarmed by the statistics, Dr. Michael Yapko - a clinical psychologist with nearly two decades of experience in working with individuals and families involved with issues of abuse - decided to investigate. This timely book reveals how and why a startling number of mental health professionals, ignorant about suggestibility and the workings of memory, are unwittingly leading their patients to believe that they are victims of sexual abuse that has been entirely repressed. In plain language, Dr. Yapko explains what we know - and don't know - about memory, repression, and suggestibility. He also offers sensitive, realistic advice for individuals and families whose lives have been damaged by questionable accusations, and for those who suspect they have been falsely led to believe they were abused." "Dr. Yapko's revelatory and compassionate book - the first to address seriously the complex and volatile subject of false memory and sexual abuse - offers invaluable insight and guidance to anyone who has been affected, personally or professionally, by this painful issue."--Jacket.