SPOILER ALERT!
Clergy Sexual Abuse – Overview
Church Abuse encompasses a range of immoral and unacceptable actions frequently perpetrated against young children and adolescents by predatory clergy or other church employees involving sexual abuse of varying amounts. The assault might be a single, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it might involve numerous assaults inside a continuing interaction. For instance, an ongoing “trusting” interaction with a young child spawned by the predatory intent of a clergy associate, cloaked with the trust and reverence provided to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual abuse acts of molestation.
Within nearly all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly report the offense to police and other authorities, or its further failure to research, handle and resolve fully with the occurrence amplifies the effects on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Abuse cases covered in the media highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios where the perpetrator frequently a clergy in the Catholic Church, is silently re-assigned from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a week passes without a media announcement reporting about sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other clergy member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and various unwanted thoughts hurting your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other channels that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, victims of abuse are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of abuse commited by a member of the clergy, the impact of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures might offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, victims can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is required, a case may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying degrees, use predatory tricks which are commonly referred to as grooming, tracking a possible abuse victim. Following is a survey of grooming actions used by predators who are in a job of authority in relation to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant part of a predator’s strategy. In a church setting, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator frequently works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as violent family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first work to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential child-victim and oftentimes their family, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend increased time with the priest, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible gifts such as blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might work to isolate the potential victim. abused by clergy might mean single counseling sessions, meals or other methods of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator might start to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is established, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely seek to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever means necessary to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Many priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Priest Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the victim from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are ready to speak with you.
Within nearly all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly report the offense to police and other authorities, or its further failure to research, handle and resolve fully with the occurrence amplifies the effects on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Abuse cases covered in the media highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios where the perpetrator frequently a clergy in the Catholic Church, is silently re-assigned from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a week passes without a media announcement reporting about sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other clergy member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and various unwanted thoughts hurting your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other channels that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, victims of abuse are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of abuse commited by a member of the clergy, the impact of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures might offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, victims can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is required, a case may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying degrees, use predatory tricks which are commonly referred to as grooming, tracking a possible abuse victim. Following is a survey of grooming actions used by predators who are in a job of authority in relation to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant part of a predator’s strategy. In a church setting, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator frequently works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as violent family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first work to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential child-victim and oftentimes their family, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend increased time with the priest, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible gifts such as blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might work to isolate the potential victim. abused by clergy might mean single counseling sessions, meals or other methods of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator might start to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is established, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely seek to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever means necessary to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Many priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Priest Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the victim from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are ready to speak with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Clergy Sexual Abuse – Information
Priest Abuse comprises a range of illegal and improper acts commonly perpetrated against children and tweens by predatory clergy or other church members involving sexual assault of varying amounts. The abuse can be a one-time, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it may include several acts within a continuing interaction. For instance, a continuing “trusting” interaction with a child created by the predatory intent of a church member, blanketed by the trust and reverence provided to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual assault acts of molestation.
Within nearly all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s employer to fully, adequately and promptly disclose the offense to police and other authorities, or its continuing failure to research, handle and resolve entirely with the occurrence increases the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases covered in the press highlight these short-comings, which includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the perpetrator commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly transferred from one location to another only to continue his predatory, criminal action on an unsuspecting parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Justice
Not a week passes without a news headline coverage about sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and other unwelcome feelings hurting your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage victims to reveal the abuse they suffered, victims of abuse are more frequently employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a survivor of abuse perpetrated by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference may offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, survivors can assert their legal rights through confidential mediation therein avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, tracking a potential assault victim. Following is arizona clergy abuse of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major piece of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially try to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as church communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the assaulter can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The child may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming continues, the predator may work to isolate the possible victim. This could result in individual counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator will start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The priest may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Several priest assault survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and keeping vibrant relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Clergy Sexual Abuse may recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the victim from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
Within nearly all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s employer to fully, adequately and promptly disclose the offense to police and other authorities, or its continuing failure to research, handle and resolve entirely with the occurrence increases the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases covered in the press highlight these short-comings, which includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the perpetrator commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly transferred from one location to another only to continue his predatory, criminal action on an unsuspecting parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Justice
Not a week passes without a news headline coverage about sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and other unwelcome feelings hurting your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage victims to reveal the abuse they suffered, victims of abuse are more frequently employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a survivor of abuse perpetrated by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference may offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, survivors can assert their legal rights through confidential mediation therein avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, tracking a potential assault victim. Following is arizona clergy abuse of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major piece of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially try to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as church communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the assaulter can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The child may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming continues, the predator may work to isolate the possible victim. This could result in individual counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator will start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The priest may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Several priest assault survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and keeping vibrant relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Clergy Sexual Abuse may recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the victim from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Priest Sexual Abuse – Overview
Priest Abuse comprises a wide-range of immoral and unacceptable acts commonly perpetrated against young children and adolescents by predatory clergy or other church members involving sexual assault of varying amounts. The assault may be a one-off, non-consensual scroll barevent or it can include many acts inside a continuing interaction. For example, an ongoing “trusting” relationship with a young child spawned by the predatory behavior of a clergy associate, cloaked by the trust and respect provided to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual attack acts of molestation.
In all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly report the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, address and deal fully with the situation increases the harm on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press show these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” situations where the abuser frequently a clergy in the Catholic Church, is quietly moved from one parish to another only to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a week goes by without a media announcement coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other clergy member, these stories are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and various unwelcome emotions harming your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, survivors of abuse are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have experienced.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the church, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system may be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures may provide a measure of justice and recompense to abuse survivors. Frequently, survivors can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is required, a motion might be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, use predatory tricks which are commonly known as grooming, aiming at a possible abuse victim. Following is a list of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant part of a predator’s strategy. In a religious environment, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, weaknesses and situations. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first try to get the child’s trust. This step is most difficult to discern as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents such as blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming escalates, the predator will work to isolate the potential victim. This could result in solo counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator might begin to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This might begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continuing interaction. The priest will likely seek to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever ways needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood assault on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining vibrant relationships. priest abuse settlement and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more frequently, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the child from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
In all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly report the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, address and deal fully with the situation increases the harm on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press show these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” situations where the abuser frequently a clergy in the Catholic Church, is quietly moved from one parish to another only to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a week goes by without a media announcement coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other clergy member, these stories are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and various unwelcome emotions harming your wellness. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, survivors of abuse are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have experienced.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the church, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system may be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures may provide a measure of justice and recompense to abuse survivors. Frequently, survivors can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is required, a motion might be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, use predatory tricks which are commonly known as grooming, aiming at a possible abuse victim. Following is a list of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant part of a predator’s strategy. In a religious environment, the priest is viewed as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, weaknesses and situations. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first try to get the child’s trust. This step is most difficult to discern as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can feign genuine concern in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents such as blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming escalates, the predator will work to isolate the potential victim. This could result in solo counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator might begin to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This might begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continuing interaction. The priest will likely seek to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever ways needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood assault on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining vibrant relationships. priest abuse settlement and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more frequently, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the child from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Clergy Abuse – Overview
Clergy Sexual Abuse includes a range of immoral and improper acts commonly commited on kids and adolescents by pedophilic clergy or other church employees involving sexual assault of varying degrees. The abuse may be a one-time, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it can include numerous acts inside a continuing interaction. For instance, a continuing “trusting” relationship with a young child spawned by the predatory behavior of a clergy associate, cloaked by the trust and respect provided to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual attack acts of molestation.
Within most claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly disclose the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to investigate, handle and resolve entirely with the situation increases the harm on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Abuse cases covered in the press highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the abuser frequently a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly moved from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an unsuspecting parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Retribution
Not a week passes without a news headline coverage about sexual assault and molestation of young children by pedophile priests, or the effects of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwelcome emotions staining your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to disclose the assault they suffered, survivors of abuse are more frequently employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have experienced.
If you are a survivor of assault perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference might offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault victims. Oftentimes, victims can leverage their legal rights through confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the victim can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tricks that are commonly known as grooming, aiming at a possible abuse victim. Below is a survey of grooming actions used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major part of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the clergy member is viewed as God’s representative. In this setting, the predator frequently works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and situations. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will initially try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can feign sincere concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend more time with the priest, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive gifts from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming progresses, the predator may work to isolate the potential target. This might result in single counseling sessions, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator may start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with crossing the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to determine the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control of the child and the continuing interaction. The predator will likely want to manipulate the child by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood assault on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Several priest assault survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems creating and keeping vibrant relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help victims overcome these effects.
priest abuse in arizona , a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can recover financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the child from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of abuse. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
Within most claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and promptly disclose the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to investigate, handle and resolve entirely with the situation increases the harm on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Abuse cases covered in the press highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the abuser frequently a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly moved from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an unsuspecting parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Retribution
Not a week passes without a news headline coverage about sexual assault and molestation of young children by pedophile priests, or the effects of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwelcome emotions staining your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to disclose the assault they suffered, survivors of abuse are more frequently employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have experienced.
If you are a survivor of assault perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible person and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference might offer a measure of justice and recompense to assault victims. Oftentimes, victims can leverage their legal rights through confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the victim can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tricks that are commonly known as grooming, aiming at a possible abuse victim. Below is a survey of grooming actions used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major part of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the clergy member is viewed as God’s representative. In this setting, the predator frequently works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and situations. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will initially try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can feign sincere concern in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend more time with the priest, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive gifts from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming progresses, the predator may work to isolate the potential target. This might result in single counseling sessions, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator may start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with crossing the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to determine the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control of the child and the continuing interaction. The predator will likely want to manipulate the child by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood assault on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Several priest assault survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems creating and keeping vibrant relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help victims overcome these effects.
priest abuse in arizona , a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can recover financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the child from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of abuse. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Church Assault – Overview
Priest Sexual Abuse comprises a range of immoral and unacceptable acts frequently perpetrated on young children and tweens by predatory priests or other church members involving sexual assault of varying degrees. The abuse might be a single, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it can include several assaults inside an ongoing interaction. For example, an ongoing “trusting” relationship with a child created by the predatory behavior of a church member, cloaked with the trust and respect imputed to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual abuse acts of molestation.
Within most alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the short-coming by the Church member’s employer to completely, adequately and promptly report the crime to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, contend with and deal fully with the occurrence increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. connecticut priest abuse covered in the press uncover these failures, including “pass-the-trash” situations where the abuser commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly moved from one location to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an unaware parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a day passes without a media announcement coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of young children by pedophile clergy, or the effects of the abuse on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, replaying the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwanted thoughts hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other channels that encourage them to reveal the assault they suffered, survivors of assault are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the life-long harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a survivor of abuse commited by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions to blame for their crimes and failures may offer an amount of justice and recompense to abuse survivors. Frequently, victims can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation therein avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, employ predatory tricks that are commonly known as grooming, tracking a possible assault victim. Below is a survey of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major part of a predator’s strategy. In a religious setting, the clergy member is viewed as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and situations. Once a target is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first work to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can feign genuine interest in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential victim and oftentimes their family members, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The child may devote increased time with the priest, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential target might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming escalates, the predator will work to isolate the potential victim. This may mean solo counseling meetings, meals or various methods of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other actions that lead to sexual interaction. This could start with crossing the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to determine the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control over the child and the continued interaction. The predator will likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood assault on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Many priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can assist victims overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault may recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the child from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
Within most alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the short-coming by the Church member’s employer to completely, adequately and promptly report the crime to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, contend with and deal fully with the occurrence increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and possibly others. connecticut priest abuse covered in the press uncover these failures, including “pass-the-trash” situations where the abuser commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is suddenly moved from one location to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an unaware parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Justice
Not a day passes without a media announcement coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of young children by pedophile clergy, or the effects of the abuse on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, replaying the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwanted thoughts hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other channels that encourage them to reveal the assault they suffered, survivors of assault are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the life-long harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a survivor of abuse commited by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and core belief system might be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions to blame for their crimes and failures may offer an amount of justice and recompense to abuse survivors. Frequently, victims can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation therein avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is necessary, a motion may be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, employ predatory tricks that are commonly known as grooming, tracking a possible assault victim. Below is a survey of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a major part of a predator’s strategy. In a religious setting, the clergy member is viewed as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and situations. Once a target is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically exploited in the following ways:
Trust
A predator will first work to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can feign genuine interest in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential victim and oftentimes their family members, the child will begin to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The child may devote increased time with the priest, feeling more and more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential target might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming escalates, the predator will work to isolate the potential victim. This may mean solo counseling meetings, meals or various methods of one-on-one isolated moments.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other actions that lead to sexual interaction. This could start with crossing the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with inappropriate messages to determine the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control over the child and the continued interaction. The predator will likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood assault on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Many priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can assist victims overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault may recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the child from the abuse, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Church Abuse – Overview
Clergy Abuse includes a wide-range of illegal and heinous behaviors commonly perpetrated against kids and teens by pedophilic clergy or other church members involving sexual abuse of varying amounts. The sexual assault can be a one-time, non-consensual scroll barevent or it might involve several acts within an ongoing interaction. For instance, a continuing “trusting” interaction with a child spawned by the predatory intent of a clergy member, blanketed by the trust and respect imputed to a priest, leading to non-consensual sexual assault acts of molestation.
In all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Church member’s employer to completely, adequately and immediately disclose the crime to police and other authorities, or the continuing failure to research, cope with and deal fully with the occurrence increases the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and potentially others. Recent Clergy Sexual Assault cases reported in the press show these short-comings, which includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios where the predator oftentimes a clergy in the Catholic Church, is silently moved from one church to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal action on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Justice
Not a day goes by without a media headline reporting about sexual abuse and molestation of children by pedophile clergy, or the aftermath of the abuse on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other clergy member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwanted feelings harming your wellness. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, survivors of assault are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the life-long damage and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of assault commited by a member of the church, the impact of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system may be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures might offer an amount of justice and recompense to abuse victims. Frequently, survivors can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is required, a motion can be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Predatory Behavior
All predators, to varying amounts, employ predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, targeting a possible assault victim. Following is a survey of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a religious environment, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as violent family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to discern as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can pretend sincere interest in the child’s wellness and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will devote more time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible victim may receive presents from the predator, including valuable, intangible gifts like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might try to isolate the potential victim. This might mean individual counseling sessions, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other actions that lead to sexual interaction. This may begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s response to the progression. This will continue until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
new jersey clergy abuse
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the survivor can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty creating and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the predator and, more frequently, from the church for its failure to protect the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
In all claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Church member’s employer to completely, adequately and immediately disclose the crime to police and other authorities, or the continuing failure to research, cope with and deal fully with the occurrence increases the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and potentially others. Recent Clergy Sexual Assault cases reported in the press show these short-comings, which includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios where the predator oftentimes a clergy in the Catholic Church, is silently moved from one church to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal action on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Abuse & Justice
Not a day goes by without a media headline reporting about sexual abuse and molestation of children by pedophile clergy, or the aftermath of the abuse on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other clergy member, these reports are most likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, embarrassment, guilt and other unwanted feelings harming your wellness. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage survivors to reveal the abuse they experienced, survivors of assault are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the life-long damage and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of assault commited by a member of the church, the impact of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system may be incalculable. Regardless, holding the responsible clergy and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures might offer an amount of justice and recompense to abuse victims. Frequently, survivors can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. But, if litigation is required, a motion can be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Predatory Behavior
All predators, to varying amounts, employ predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, targeting a possible assault victim. Following is a survey of grooming behaviors exhibited by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a religious environment, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as violent family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – may be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to discern as religious communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can pretend sincere interest in the child’s wellness and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will devote more time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible victim may receive presents from the predator, including valuable, intangible gifts like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might try to isolate the potential victim. This might mean individual counseling sessions, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may start to de-sensitize the target from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and other actions that lead to sexual interaction. This may begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s response to the progression. This will continue until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
new jersey clergy abuse
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to maintain control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the victim by whatever methods needed to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the survivor can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the assault including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty creating and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the predator and, more frequently, from the church for its failure to protect the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are prepared to talk with you.
Church Assault – Overview
Clergy Sexual Abuse includes a range of illegal and heinous behaviors frequently perpetrated against children and tweens by predatory priests or other church members involving sexual abuse of varying amounts. The sexual assault may be a one-off, non-consensual scroll barevent or it may involve several acts within a continuing interaction. For abused by priest , a continuing “trusting” interaction with a young child created by the predatory behavior of a clergy associate, cloaked by the trust and respect provided to a member of the clergy, leading to non-consensual sexual assault acts of molestation.
In nearly all alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to fully, adequately and immediately report the crime to police and other authorities, or its further failure to research, cope with and deal fully with the occurrence amplifies the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Assault cases covered in the media highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the perpetrator commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is quietly transferred from one parish to another only to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Retribution
Not a day goes by without a news headline coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of children by pedophile clergy, or the aftermath of the abuse on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and various unwelcome feelings hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage victims to reveal the assault they suffered, survivors of assault are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the impact of the abuse on your life and core belief system can be immeasurable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible priest and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference can provide a measure of justice and recompense to abuse victims. Commonly, survivors can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion might be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, use predatory methods which are generally referred to as grooming, targeting a possible abuse victim. Following is a list of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a church setting, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially work to gain the child’s trust. This step is most difficult to notice as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can pretend genuine interest in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential child-victim and oftentimes their family, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible gifts like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming progresses, the predator might work to isolate the potential victim. This could result in single counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This might start with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s response to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is established, the predator will work to maintain control over the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the target by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems establishing and maintaining vibrant relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Priest Sexual Abuse can recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to shield the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
In nearly all alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to fully, adequately and immediately report the crime to police and other authorities, or its further failure to research, cope with and deal fully with the occurrence amplifies the effects on the abuse survivor, the community and possibly others. Current Clergy Sexual Assault cases covered in the media highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” scenarios when the perpetrator commonly a priest in the Catholic Church, is quietly transferred from one parish to another only to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault and Retribution
Not a day goes by without a news headline coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of children by pedophile clergy, or the aftermath of the abuse on the victims and their families. If you are a victim of sexual abuse from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to act as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and various unwelcome feelings hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage victims to reveal the assault they suffered, survivors of assault are more frequently turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime harm and injury they have suffered.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the impact of the abuse on your life and core belief system can be immeasurable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible priest and institutions accountable for their crimes and indifference can provide a measure of justice and recompense to abuse victims. Commonly, survivors can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion might be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All abusers, to varying amounts, use predatory methods which are generally referred to as grooming, targeting a possible abuse victim. Following is a list of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a church setting, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small numbers of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is identified, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, loneliness, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will initially work to gain the child’s trust. This step is most difficult to notice as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the priest can pretend genuine interest in the child’s wellbeing and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator creates a trusting relationship with the potential child-victim and oftentimes their family, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim may devote increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and relying on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible gifts like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
As the grooming progresses, the predator might work to isolate the potential victim. This could result in single counseling meetings, meals or other forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to touching, caressing and other behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This might start with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s response to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship advances to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is established, the predator will work to maintain control over the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the victim by continuing to make the victim feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the target by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-altering. Several priest abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems establishing and maintaining vibrant relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Priest Sexual Abuse can recover financial compensation from the predator and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to shield the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and resolving to reports of assault. If you are a victim of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are ready to talk with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Priest Predator Abuse – Overview
Church Sexual Abuse includes a wide-range of illegal and unacceptable acts commonly perpetrated on kids and adolescents by predatory priests or other church members involving sexual abuse of varying amounts. The assault might be a single, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it might include many assaults within an ongoing interaction. For priest abuse , an ongoing “trusting” relationship with a young child created by the predatory behavior of a church member, cloaked with the trust and reverence imputed to a priest, leading to non-consensual sexual abuse acts of molestation.
In most claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Church member’s employer to fully, adequately and immediately disclose the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, address and resolve fully with the situation increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and potentially others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” situations where the perpetrator commonly a clergy in the Catholic Church, is secretly transferred from one church to another only to continue his predatory, criminal action on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault & Justice
Not a day goes by without a news headline coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of children by pedophile priests, or the legacy of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and other unwelcome feelings staining your wellness. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage them to disclose the assault they experienced, survivors of assault are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong damage and injury they have experienced.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the result of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system might be incalculable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible priest and institutions to blame for their crimes and indifference might offer an amount of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, victims can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion can be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Predatory Behavior
All predators, to varying amounts, use predatory tricks that are commonly referred to as grooming, targeting a possible assault victim. Below is a survey of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a church environment, the clergy member is revered as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator frequently works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will first try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the assaulter can feign sincere concern in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential victim and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator may try to isolate the possible victim. This could result in solo counseling meetings, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the child by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever methods necessary to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Many clergy abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems creating and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Priest Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the child from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to speak with you.
In most claimed Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse scenarios, the failure by the Church member’s employer to fully, adequately and immediately disclose the offense to law enforcement and other authorities, or its further failure to research, address and resolve fully with the situation increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and potentially others. Current Church Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press highlight these short-comings, that includes “pass-the-trash” situations where the perpetrator commonly a clergy in the Catholic Church, is secretly transferred from one church to another only to continue his predatory, criminal action on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault & Justice
Not a day goes by without a news headline coverage regarding sexual assault and molestation of children by pedophile priests, or the legacy of the assault on the survivors and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these reports are likely to serve as an echo chamber, reverberating the horror, shame, guilt and other unwelcome feelings staining your wellness. Encouraged by the societal movement and other channels that encourage them to disclose the assault they experienced, survivors of assault are increasingly turning to the legal system to compensate them for the lifelong damage and injury they have experienced.
If you are a victim of abuse perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the result of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system might be incalculable. Nonetheless, holding the responsible priest and institutions to blame for their crimes and indifference might offer an amount of justice and recompense to assault survivors. Frequently, victims can assert their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion can be filed where the survivor can remain anonymous.
Predatory Behavior
All predators, to varying amounts, use predatory tricks that are commonly referred to as grooming, targeting a possible assault victim. Below is a survey of grooming behaviors used by predators who are in a position of authority in relation to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s strategy. In a church environment, the clergy member is revered as God’s representative. In this environment, the predator frequently works closely with small numbers of children, identifying each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a target is located, these vulnerabilities – such as tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – can be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will first try to gain the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to notice as religious communities are often tight-knit and personal interaction with clergy is commonplace. Here, the assaulter can feign sincere concern in the child’s wellbeing and groeth – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential victim and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for whatever need it is that the predator is exploiting and fulfilling. The victim will spend increased time with the predator, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the potential victim may receive presents from the priest, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator may try to isolate the possible victim. This could result in solo counseling meetings, meals or various forms of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator may begin to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various behaviors that lead to sexual interaction. This could begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to gauge the victim’s reaction to the progression. This will continue until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
As the sexual relationship is created, the predator will work to keep control of the child and the continued interaction. The predator may likely want to manipulate the child by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will keep exploiting the victim by whatever methods necessary to maintain the immoral physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The effect of childhood abuse on the survivor can be severe and life-changing. Many clergy abuse survivors suffer from lifelong effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and problems creating and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized therapy and support groups can help survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Priest Sexual Assault can gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the church for its failure to shield the child from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its process of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse and would like to confidentially discuss your experience and your legal options, we are ready to speak with you.
SPOILER ALERT!
Clergy Predator Abuse – Overview
Clergy Sexual Abuse includes a range of illegal and unacceptable acts often perpetrated on kids and teens by predatory clergy or other church employees involving sexual abuse of varying amounts. arizona clergy abuse might be a one-time, non-consensual scroll barencounter or it can include numerous assaults inside a continuing interaction. For instance, an ongoing “trusting” relationship with a young child spawned by the predatory behavior of a clergy member, blanketed by the trust and respect imputed to a priest, leading to non-consensual sexual attack acts of molestation.
Within all alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and immediately report the offense to police and other authorities, or the continuing failure to research, cope with and deal entirely with the occurrence increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and potentially others. Recent Clergy Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press highlight these short-comings, including “pass-the-trash” situations when the abuser frequently a priest in the Catholic Church, is silently re-assigned from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault & Retribution
Not a week goes by without a news announcement coverage regarding sexual abuse and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these stories are likely to act as an echo chamber, replaying the horror, embarrassment, guilt and various unwanted emotions hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to disclose the abuse they experienced, victims of abuse are increasingly employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime damage and injury they have experienced.
If you are a survivor of abuse perpetrated by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system can be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible church and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures can offer an amount of justice and recompense to assault victims. Frequently, victims can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion can be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, focusing on a possible assault victim. Below is a list of grooming actions exhibited by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – like tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will first try to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to discern as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can pretend sincere interest in the child’s wellness and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The child will spend increased time with the priest, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might try to isolate the potential target. This may mean solo counseling meetings, meals or various methods of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator might start to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various actions that lead to sexual interaction. This may begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to determine the victim’s response to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is created, the predator will try to maintain control over the child and the continued interaction. The priest may likely seek to manipulate the child by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the target by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-changing. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Clergy Sexual Assault may gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are prepared to speak with you.
Within all alleged Priest or Clergy Sexual Abuse situations, the failure by the Clergy member’s superior to entirely, adequately and immediately report the offense to police and other authorities, or the continuing failure to research, cope with and deal entirely with the occurrence increases the effects on the assault survivor, the community and potentially others. Recent Clergy Sexual Abuse cases reported in the press highlight these short-comings, including “pass-the-trash” situations when the abuser frequently a priest in the Catholic Church, is silently re-assigned from one parish to another merely to continue his predatory, criminal behavior on an innocent parish community.
Priest and Clergy Sexual Assault & Retribution
Not a week goes by without a news announcement coverage regarding sexual abuse and molestation of young children by predator clergy, or the aftermath of the assault on the victims and their families. If you are a survivor of sexual assault from a priest or other church member, these stories are likely to act as an echo chamber, replaying the horror, embarrassment, guilt and various unwanted emotions hurting your well-being. Encouraged by the social movement and other pathways that encourage survivors to disclose the abuse they experienced, victims of abuse are increasingly employing the legal system to compensate them for the lifetime damage and injury they have experienced.
If you are a survivor of abuse perpetrated by a priest, the result of the abuse on your life and foundational belief system can be immeasurable. Regardless, holding the responsible church and institutions accountable for their crimes and failures can offer an amount of justice and recompense to assault victims. Frequently, victims can leverage their legal rights in confidential mediation thereby avoiding the need for litigation. However, if litigation is necessary, a motion can be filed where the plaintiff can remain anonymous.
Abusive Behavior
All predators, to varying degrees, use predatory tactics that are generally referred to as grooming, focusing on a possible assault victim. Below is a list of grooming actions exhibited by predators who are in a job of authority relative to the subordinate young child.
Grooming
Grooming is a significant piece of a predator’s ploy. In a religious environment, the priest is held as God’s representative. Within this setting, the predator often works closely with small amounts of children, understanding each child’s needs, vulnerabilities and circumstances. Once a victim is identified, these vulnerabilities – like tumultuous family setting, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional neediness, attention-seeking – might be systematically leveraged in the following ways:
Trust
An assaulter will first try to get the child’s trust. This strategy is most difficult to discern as church communities are frequently tight-knit and personal relation with clergy is commonplace. Here, the predator can pretend sincere interest in the child’s wellness and development – both emotional and religious.
Reliance
As a predator establishes a trusting relationship with the potential target and oftentimes their family members, the child will start to rely more and more on the predator for any need it is that the priest is exploiting and fulfilling. The child will spend increased time with the priest, feeling more comfortable with the relationship and counting on its stability and security. In addition to attention and affection, the possible target might receive gifts from the predator, including valuable, intangible presents like blessings and special recognition.
Isolation
While grooming continues, the predator might try to isolate the potential target. This may mean solo counseling meetings, meals or various methods of one-on-one isolated encounters.
Sexualization
The predator might start to de-sensitize the child from reacting negatively to contact, caressing and various actions that lead to sexual interaction. This may begin with breaking the physical-touch barrier, or verbally, with suggestive messages to determine the victim’s response to the progression. This will escalate until the relationship gets to one of a physical, sexual nature.
Maintenance
Once the sexual relationship is created, the predator will try to maintain control over the child and the continued interaction. The priest may likely seek to manipulate the child by continuing to make the target feel special and worthy. The predator will continue to exploit the target by whatever methods necessary to maintain the inappropriate physical relationship.
Impact on Clergy Abuse Survivors
The impact of childhood abuse on the victim can be overwhelming and life-changing. Several clergy assault survivors suffer from long-term effects of the abuse including depression, disturbed sleeping, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and eating patterns, and difficulty establishing and keeping healthy relationships. Individualized treatment and support groups can assist survivors overcome these effects.
Legally, a victim of Clergy Sexual Assault may gain financial compensation from the abuser and, more commonly, from the religious organization for its failure to protect the victim from the assault, as well as failures or deficiencies in its method of reviewing and responding to reports of assault. If you are a survivor of Priest or Clergy Sexual Assault and would like to confidentially discuss your situation and your legal options, we are prepared to speak with you.
