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Spiritual abuse is the manipulation of a person by someone in a position of trust in a religious or spiritual tradition, often for the benefit of the abuser or group at the expense of the victim. It can occur in major religious organizations and cults, and has emotional, physical, and financial consequences for victims. Abusive behavior can be motivated by personal desire or organizational dogma, and can involve doctrinal deception, social isolation, or physical punishment. The consequences of spiritual abuse can be lifelong and varied.
Spiritual abuse most often refers to the psychological manipulation of a person by someone holding a position of trust in a religious or spiritual tradition. The manipulation is for the benefit of the abuser or the abuser’s group at the expense of the victim. The form it takes depends on whether personal desire or organizational dogma is the underlying cause. Spiritual abuse has very real emotional, physical and financial consequences for its victims.
Cult affiliation is often cited as the most common site for spiritual abuse, although examples of it can be seen in major religious organizations around the world. Rigorous adherence to a rigid doctrine, presided over by a charismatic or powerful leader of unquestioned authority, indicates an environment conducive to abuse. Genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of followers could motivate offensive behavior. Satisfying selfish or pathological personal desires could also be a motivator. Victims of spiritual abuse are often psychologically vulnerable adults and children.
An altruistic concern that places compliance with teachings before a follower’s freedom to inquire and express concerns can lead to abusive behavior. Strict conformity to accepted teachings, as interpreted by the group leader, could be seen as the foundation of spiritual well-being. The instruction and correction of a wandering or questioning member is understood as a positive good. When the methods used for correction involve the infliction of personal fear and shame, doctrinal deception, social isolation, or physical punishment, then spiritual abuse exists. The welfare of the individual is sacrificed for doctrinal purity.
People who have personality disorders or psychopathic tendencies sometimes hold positions of influence in religious bodies, just as they sometimes hold positions of influence in secular organizations. Such a person might be a true believer whose state of mind leads to doctrinal excess or personal glorification. Another person may see their position solely as a vehicle for satisfying personal desires. People who seek to be the focus of worship might engage in spiritual abuse by socially isolating followers, demanding the surrender of worldly possessions, or creating doctrines to enhance their exclusive status. The abuse of a position of trust to sexually abuse or financially deceive a follower is more akin to the abuse of rank found in secular society.
The consequences of spiritual abuse are many and varied, ranging from emotional to material. Individuals and families could become impoverished. Family members may drift apart, with little hope of reconciliation. Children may grow up to be adults who trust neither their own nature nor the motives of others. The lifelong consequences of abuse are well documented.
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