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Satanism as a Response to Abuse: The Dynamics and Treatment of Satanic Involvement in Male Youths

NCJ Number
141815
Journal
Adolescence Volume: 27 Issue: 108 Dated: (Winter 1992) Pages: 855-872
Author(s)
J Belitz; A Schact
Date Published
1992
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Research has indicated that male youths from abusive family environments, who may have poor social skills and feelings of anger, low self-esteem, depression, and isolation, appear to be more vulnerable to involvement in satanic cults. This study is based on the treatment of 10 boys between the ages of 12 and 17, who were admitted to child and adolescent psychiatric facilities and who reported repeated voluntary involvement in group satanic activities beginning in adolescence or preadolescence.
Abstract
All of these subjects had been physically and/or sexually abused and many had experienced domestic abuse in their households. Their mothers felt powerless and were basically unable to protect the boys. For those boys who had been sexually victimized, the feelings of rage, powerlessness, and poor self-perception was even more intense. Sexuality became associated with anger and aggression rather than with a caring relationship. The boys' mothers and other persons with significant relationships invalidated and devalued their feelings, further encouraging hatred of their abusers as well as self-hatred. Many of these boys were also traumatized by parents with rigid religious beliefs who presented a dichotomous world view. Satanism offered them membership in a group which revered evil, legitimized their hatred and aggressive sexuality, and provided a sense of power through the promise of magical powers. Participation in satanic rituals perpetuated the boys' self-perceptions as evil. These youths can be treated with family and individual therapy. The therapeutic milieu must prohibit any display of satanic materials, must provide a safe environment, and should encourage the development of problemsolving skills and social relationships. 14 references

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