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Satanism in a psychiatric adolescent population
D Bourget1, A Gagnon, J M Bradford
1Forensic Psychiatry, Royal Ottawa Hospital.
Summary
A study found a high prevalence of preoccupation with "satanism" among adolescents in psychiatric care, often linked to maladjustment, family disruption, and abuse. This highlights concerns about psychological development under high psychosocial stress.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
- Sociology of Religion
Background:
- Adolescent psychiatric facilities encounter a high prevalence of referrals.
- Preoccupation with "satanism" was unexpectedly common in referred adolescents.
- Previous hypotheses linked marginal cult beliefs to general maladjustment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify common characteristics among adolescents preoccupied with "satanism".
- To investigate the link between "satanism" beliefs and adolescent maladjustment.
- To explore the role of psychosocial stressors in adolescent belief systems.
Main Methods:
- Case identification and documentation of eight referred adolescents.
- Clinical assessment of psychiatric symptoms and social adjustment.
- Analysis of family dynamics, including parental abuse and disruption.
Main Results:
- A significant trend linking "satanism" preoccupation with delinquent behavior and impaired social adjustment was confirmed.
- High prevalence of family disruption and parental abuse observed in cases.
- Diverse psychiatric symptoms were prevalent among the study subjects.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents preoccupied with "satanism" exhibit significant maladjustment and social impairment.
- Family disruption and parental abuse are strongly associated with this phenomenon.
- Psychosocial stress may increase adolescent susceptibility to certain beliefs and indoctrination, warranting further research.