This article is an examination of the theoretical development and diagnostic utility of "False Memory Syndrome" designed to determine whether or not the syndrome is a valid diagnostic tool. The "syndrome" is described as a social phenomenon where misguided therapists cause patients to invent memories of sexual abuse (McCarty & Hough, 1992). The author begins the discussion with a look at the evolution of the handling of child sexual abuse claims and also the creation of the "false memory" syndrome movement including the development of both the theory and the advocacy activities of false memory proponents. The story of Pamela and Peter Freyd, the founders of the False Memory Syndrome Foundation is presented. The author evaluates False Memory Syndrome as a diagnostic construct and reviews the unavailability of empirical evidence to define the syndrome, noting the lack of independent evidence regarding the existence of and the features of False Memory Syndrome. The social consequences of false memory rhetoric is presented. 14 notes, 107 references