Over the past ten years, the abuse of children has become subject to much publicity and fierce controversy. The consequences of the traumatization and deprivation of children are complex and show much individual variation. Whether the alleged “soul murder” has actually taken place cannot always be determined with certainty Recovering the memory of trauma is less important than enabling patients to feel responsible for how the memory—or its possibility—is currently registered and functions in their minds Successful therapy in those who have been abused as children depends on their ability to acquire or enhance trust and caring in others, which in turn depends on the patients' capacity to feel and tolerate the rage and hatred that are such burdens for these unfortunate people.