Risk management for psychologists: Treating patients who recover lost memories of childhood abuse.

The mental health community and, in certain respects, society itself have become polarized over the issue of lost and recovered memories of childhood abuse. Psychologists who treat patients who recover lost memories of childhood abuse during psychotherapy may find themselves vulnerable to lawsuits from patients who later recant the memories of abuse or, in unusual circumstances, from family members of the patients. Psychologists can reduce their legal risks by following certain basic precautions, including maintaining appropriate boundaries with their patients, following acceptable procedures in diagnosing and treating patients, obtaining informed consent (especially when using experimental procedures), and showing concern for patients' long-term relationships with their families. Consultation on difficult cases and careful documentation are also indicated. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)