None of these explanations are completely satisfying to me. As a clinical psychologist I have worked with a fairly large number of abuse survivors. As I began to get a local reputation for working with this population I began to get referrals of patients that other therapists felt uncomfortable continuing to work with. Partly through this mechanism I have worked intensely with four patients who had ritual abuse memories. Some of this work was successful, some was not, and some is ongoing. I still don't pretend to understand what is happening here, but I have some ideas.
I believe that some of these memories - in some of these patients - are relatively accurate memories of severe abuse in a group setting. I'm pretty sure that the details are not all accurate, and the childlike point-of-view has undoubtedly distorted things further. I do not believe that there is a world-wide conspiracy that links Satanic groups together, although I suppose that this is possible.
It doesn't really matter whether you agree with me or not. The most therapeutic way for mental health professionals to approach the memories of these patients is with careful, caring neutrality. Work with them toward healing. Consider taping sessions - with the client's written permission - in order to document that you are not in the business of implanting memories. Encourage patients to find corroboration for their memories if possible, but avoid the temptation to become a detective. Seek supervision, education, and/or consultation; and be sure that you are taking care of yourself too.
