Preventing partner from practicing their religion (attending religious services, engaging in spiritual practices, observing significant spiritual occasions, etc )
What is Spiritual Abuse?
Spiritual abuse is a form of power and control where an abuser exploits a victim's religious or spiritual beliefs It can manifest in various ways such as:
Using religion as a weapon by using the victim's religious beliefs against them as a threat, power play, or justification for the abuse they are experiencing Imposing beliefs by forcefully impose their own beliefs onto the victim, disregarding the victim's autonomy and individuality
Spiritual abuse is equally harmful and destructive as any other form of domestic abuse It not only undermines a survivor's personal convictions and identity, but it also violates their right to practice their spirituality freely
Insulting partner's faith, spirituality, or personal beliefs
Using religious texts, spiritual teachings, or personal beliefs to control and exert power over a partner, particularly in relation to relationships, gender roles, reproduction, and sexuality
Pressuring a partner to remain in an abusive marriage or relationship by threatening to tarnish their reputation within a religious or spiritual community if they choose to leave
By raising awareness about spiritual abuse, we aim to support survivors and create a safe space where they can heal and reclaim their autonomy and spiritual well-being
How can Faith Leaders Help?
Violence affects people of all faiths and spiritualities.
As a leader in your faith community, survivors may feel comfortable disclosing their abuse to you rather than a therapist, advocate, or law enforcement It is crucial to believe them and connect them with trauma-informed resources
Creating a culture of respect and belief is vital in empowering survivors to seek help when experiencing abuse We encourage you to openly discuss topics such as healthy relationships, boundaries, consent, and how to ask for help if needed
By actively promoting these conversations and providing support, faith leaders play a crucial role in assisting survivors on their journey to healing and recovery
Supporting Survivors in Your Faith Community
Train all staff members and volunteers on how to model healthy and consensual relationships with partners and children.
Host educational programs on topics like healthy relationships, abuse, sexual violence, or healthy masculinity
Display local domestic violence and sexual assault resources on bulletin boards, in monthly newsletters, etc
Ensure that your faith community has victim-centered policies in place on how to best support survivors who come forward.
Additional Resources
Spiritual Abuse Resources (SAR): www.spiritualabuseresources.com
Faith Trust Institute: www:faithtrustinstitute org
National Resource Center on Domestic Violence: www vawnet org
National Sexual Violence Resource Center: www nsvrc org
Rape,
& Incest National Network: www rainn org