Clergy Abuse-What is it And Who is at Risk?

Also known as clergy abuse or clergy sex abuse, the victims of the misconduct are usually minors. The perpetrators of children are typically Church officials, including deacons and priests. Adults can also be the victims of Catholic abuse. Tons of research around people with mental health issues indicates that a local pastor is usually their first go-to place instead of a psychologist or social worker. In simple words, massive trust is given to Church officials.  

What is Clergy Abuse?

According to research, clergy abuse occurs when members of the Church use their position and authority to exploit, abuse (sexually), and harm a member (child/adult) of their congregation. Consent is ruled out as a defense as it is understood that the Church officials have more power and authority in the relationship and thus make it difficult for the other party to refuse. 

What Does Clergy Abuse Look Like?

Like other forms of sexual harassment, Clergy abuse looks like similar misconduct of assault and harassment. Sexual harassment can include:

• Touching and hugging without consent.
• Pressurizing the affected individual for sexual involvement.
• Using obscene/ sexual language.
• Making lewd jokes.
• Sexualizing conversations.
• Invading personal space for sexual purposes. 

What Makes Clergy Abuse Non-Consensual?

The simple answer is that the difference in power and authority makes sexual involvement between a clergy member and another individual non-consensual. With that said, there is also the possibility that parishioners might seduce the pastor or clergy officials. Instances like these can happen. However, it is still the authoritative figure’s responsibility to shut the possibility of such an interaction down. If you have been a victim, consider getting a permit to carry a weapon if it would make you feel safe. 

What Does Statistics Reveal?

The extent of the Catholic abuse is shocking, with thousands of people and child survivors (within the U.S.) reporting the abuse encounters. Within the fifty years of 1950 till 2002, more than 4000 priests were accused of clergy abuse. 

Since 2004, more than 20 parishes have filed for bankruptcy as they have tried to end their existing lawsuits quietly while preventing new lawsuits from getting filed against them. Additionally, the victims and survivors of clergy sex abuse have to spend more than $280 thousand for dealing with different physical, mental, and emotional health issues that they developed after the abuse. 

How to Address the Clergy Sexual Abuse?

There is no doubt that the mental and emotional scars of clergy abuse survivors are to last a lifetime. However, survivors ought to know their right to compensation as they bear the burden of past and even present sexual abuse by the catholic clergy. It is suggested to indulge yourself in a physical activity like BJJ to become and feel stronger.

Survivors have the option to hold their abusers accountable for the crime and receive compensation. Some states even provide special compensation programs to help victims cover their therapy and medical costs associated with the abuse’s lasting trauma.

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Suppose you know someone who has been through clergy abuse. In that case, you can make it easier for the victims by introducing them to various youth support groups, so they enter a safe space and express their emotions, feelings, and thoughts within the healing unit. Tell them that their emotions are valid and that it is okay to grieve and demand compensation.