When we're dealing with allegations which relate to sex abuse cases we are generally dealing with episodic memory, that is memory for actual events. Procedures which are utilized by the mind in creating memory are threefold. First is the encoding of the memory, second is the storing of it and third is the process of retrieving memory. These things can be affected by many contaminants. The more traumatic the incident is the better the memory generally will be and therefore, the less likely it will be contaminated.
Reconstructive memory is in many ways invented memory.
It can be extremely inaccurate. Reconstructive memory is subject to contamination based upon false recollection caused by such things as passage of time, while memory which is reproductive is accurate, memories created based upon recalling events over a longer period of time need to be analyzed in relationship to the post event information effect. Post event information effect has been recognized back to Dr. Loftus. Interviewer bias affects memory by the interviewer reporting its interpretation of the interview which has been contaminated based upon the effect upon the children of the interviewers own position regarding the information which is being sought. Such as, where the interviewer already believes that abuse has occurred.