NCJ Number
224803
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 17 Issue: 3/4 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 301-328
Date Published
November 2008
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article discusses a unified theoretical model of clergy-perpetrated sexual assault (CPSA) for future research.
Abstract
Findings indicate that the interactive dynamic model proposed is complex and would require extensive research to determine if the assertions are supported; however, this model is believed to be able to provide a foundation for future investigations. This article proposes a dynamic interactive model of CPSA that primarily focuses on the relationships between survivors, perpetrators, and their religious communities. The proposed model incorporates elements from broadband theories of psychological adaptation to extreme adversity and integrates the relatively small literature on CPSA with some of the more extensive literature on sexual trauma perpetrated by nonclergy. By using a broader framework as a base, the study attempts to provide an empirically testable model that also includes examples of supporting evidence where possible. The article argues the need for continued qualitative research that has dominated the field of CPSA research to date. Research has predominately focused on the statements of survivors, therefore, more in-depth qualitative research on the perpetrators and communities affected by CPSA is needed. This study draws on qualitative studies and the experience and knowledge of the extant literature. Notes and references