Relationship of reported memories of early experiences with parents on interview behavior.

Abstract

Twenty-two female 5s were divided into two groups, by means of a behavioral interview, on the basis of a relatively "good" or a relatively "poor" reported early relationship with their fathers. In a second interview over closed-circuit television, three measures were taken of S's interview behavior. The E and 5 were in two separate rooms, and communication was maintained by the television cameras and receivers. The two groups responded significantly different on two of the three measures. The data suggested that present behavior can be predicted by perceived early history variables and that the interview is both a reliable and valid technique for obtaining these data.In most clinical settings, the historical determinant of behavior is accepted unequivocally. Childhood experiences are sought and put to use in both diagnostic and therapeutic functions. However, a number of impressive papers in the literature have raised doubt as to the validity of "the child being the father of the man," to borrow from an old proverb. Schofield and Balian (1959) reported a surprising overlap of pathological events in the histories of schizophrenic patients when compared with a nonpsychiatric population. More recently, in a review article, Frank (196S) concluded from a survey of 40 years of research that no unique factors of family history were found to differentiate psychotics and neurotics from controls or from each other.Perhaps underlying objections to historical data is the more basic objection to the method by which they are obtained-the interview. Haggard, Brekstad, and Skard (1960) expressed doubts concerning the reliability of anamnestic data. They concluded that the interview was not particularly accurate and was more a reflection of the person's current perception of the past rather than ac-1 Now in private practice, Jackson, Mississippi. Requests for reprints should be sent to James R. Baugh, Suite 403 Medical Tower,