Disclosure of sexual abuse committed by rabbis: How family members perceive its effects on their relationships with the victims

  • 0The Louis & Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work, Bar-Ilan University: Ramat Gan, Israel.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Family members

Area Of Science

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Religious Studies

Background

  • Sexual abuse by religious authorities (SARA) is a significant issue with profound effects on victims and their families.
  • Limited research exists on the experiences and perspectives of family members of SARA victims.
  • This study investigates the impact of SARA on family dynamics, specifically focusing on male victims of abuse by rabbis.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To explore family members' perceptions of how abuse disclosure by SARA victims impacts their relationships.
  • To understand the emotional and relational shifts experienced by families of SARA victims.

Main Methods

  • A constructivist-phenomenological approach was employed.
  • Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 family members (mothers, siblings, spouse) of male SARA victims.
  • The study focused on individuals abused by rabbis during adolescence.

Main Results

  • Two primary themes emerged regarding family relationships: a closeness-distance dynamic and a "Who needs protection: The victim or me?" theme.
  • Family members exhibited varied responses, either prioritizing the victim's needs or expressing self-protective wariness.
  • Findings reveal a spectrum of relational changes, from increased closeness to emotional distancing.

Conclusions

  • The study highlights diverse relationship changes between family members and male SARA victims post-disclosure.
  • Emotional support for family members is crucial for the recovery of both them and the victims.
  • Addressing the needs of family members is essential for comprehensive healing.

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