Mike Palij wrote: IMHO, it seems more reasonable to be able to access and reflect on the memory but with a reduced emotional response (which seems to be the goal of current psychotherapies).
-------------------------------------- I think, despite some confusing surrounding the issue, that that is what the treatment they are investigating does. As I understand it, (and some of the discussions of it are as clear as mud on this point), it doesn't necessarily remove the memory, it just removes the maladaptive emotional responses associated with the memory. Although the first paragraph of the linked article refers to wiping out memories, it goes on to say that, although they can't do that, they are doing the next best thing. "They have been testing a pill that, when given after a traumatic event like rape, may make the resulting memories less painful and intense." Later in the article in response to a stated concern that the drug would destroy the memory, Pitman said, "The important thing to know about this drug is it doesn't put a hole in their memory. It doesn't create amnesia." So, I think what they are doing, in spite of all the hype about destroying specific painful memories, is removing the anxiety surrounding the memory that leads to the symptoms of PTSD. It may be that this will lead to a fading of the memory eventually but that would make it no different than any other memory. Mike said: " IMHO, it seems more reasonable to be able to access and reflect on the memory but with a reduced emotional response (which seems to be the goal of current psychotherapies)." I think that is also the goal of this research despite the impression that might be given in parts of the article. Rick Dr. Rick Froman Professor of Psychology John Brown University 2000 W. University Siloam Springs, AR 72761 [EMAIL PROTECTED] (479) 524-7295 http://www.jbu.edu/academics/sbs/faculty/rfroman.asp --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: archive@jab.org To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
