{"id":2551,"date":"2025-06-20T20:53:47","date_gmt":"2025-06-20T20:53:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/?p=2551"},"modified":"2025-06-21T03:43:25","modified_gmt":"2025-06-21T03:43:25","slug":"spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/","title":{"rendered":"Spiritual Abuse &amp; Religious Trauma"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-4863d053\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-Spiritual-Abuse\"><\/span>What is Spiritual Abuse?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Spiritual abuse is a significant form of mistreatment that occurs when religious or spiritual beliefs and authority are misused or exploited to harm individuals. This phenomenon is increasingly recognized for its lasting damage to victims&#8217; sense of identity, well-being, and mental health.:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Defining-Characteristics-of-Spiritual-Abuse\"><\/span>Defining Characteristics of Spiritual Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Spiritual abuse is characterized by a systematic pattern of coercive and controlling behavior within a religious or spiritual context. Key elements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Misuse of Power and Authority\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Leaders use their spiritual position to control or dominate others, or to bolster their own needs. This can involve demanding unquestioning obedience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The abuser, often a leader, may attain a &#8220;cult-like&#8221; or &#8220;guru&#8221; status, their word becoming infallible and their authority unquestioned because they are seen as &#8220;chosen and anointed by God&#8221; or a divine representative.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This power differential is amplified by the perception that the abuse comes directly from a divine or holy source.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manipulation and Coercion\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Using spiritual or religious beliefs, including scripture and the pulpit, to manipulate, pressure, or control behavior and enforce agendas. This can include &#8220;proof-texting,&#8221; where scripture is taken out of context to justify actions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employing scare tactics, such as threatening that &#8220;God will withdraw his love&#8221; or punish individuals for perceived &#8220;sin&#8221; or disobedience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promoting a relationship with the divine or the community that is based on performance and dependence (Conditionality). Members believe they must meet certain spiritual standards to earn approval or avoid negative consequences.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shame and Guilt\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Frequently used as tools for manipulation and control. Victims may receive messages that their spirituality is &#8220;defective&#8221; or that something is inherently &#8220;wrong with them&#8221;.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perfectionist-retributionist doctrines can lead to intense self-denigration and guilt for failing to live up to perceived spiritual standards or live without &#8220;sin&#8221;.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suppression of Expression and Isolation\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Creating an environment where open disagreement or questioning is discouraged, often leading to individuals being shunned or asked to leave.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enforcing secrecy and silence around injustices experienced within the group.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Individuals may be actively isolated from external support systems or views outside the group&#8217;s worldview.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Systemic Nature\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Abuse can be perpetrated by an individual leader (Individual Leader Model) or by a group or entire church community (Group Model), which can be subtler and even unconscious.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theological and institutional structures may actively protect abusive leaders, contributing to a culture of impunity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impacts-of-Spiritual-Abuse\"><\/span>Impacts of Spiritual Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The consequences of spiritual abuse are profound and far-reaching, affecting individuals across psychological, emotional, spiritual, physical, and social domains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spiritual and Existential Impacts\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weakening or undermining spiritual empowerment, leading to a loss of meaning and purpose.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage at a transcendental level, which can shatter a victim&#8217;s connection with the divine or sacred. This can result in a crisis of faith. and a distorted perception of God.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Profound spiritual insecurity, grief, and existential disorientation. Many survivors report feeling that something sacred, like their &#8220;soul,&#8221; has been stolen.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Psychological and Emotional Impacts\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Intense feelings of fear, shame, guilt, and self-blame. This self-blame is often exacerbated by cultural views that may imply victims are at fault.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experience of despair, hopelessness, anger, cynicism, loneliness, and misunderstanding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Development of PTSD-like symptoms, including anxiety, panic attacks, depression, self-harm tendencies, and suicidal ideation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loss of a sense of self, identity confusion, or a fragmented identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty with critical thinking, decision-making, trusting oneself or one&#8217;s emotions, and setting boundaries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repression of feelings and desires, which can lead to emotional breakdown.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For LGBTQIA+ individuals, this can manifest as intense guilt and self-hatred, leading to internalized homophobia.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Physical and Physiological Manifestations\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Physical symptoms stemming from psychological distress, such as tension headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, and chronic pains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disregulated nervous system, impaired cognitive functioning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nightmares, flashbacks, and exaggerated startle responses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sleep and eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social and Relational Impacts\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Disruption of intimate relationships, social isolation, and withdrawal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loss of supportive community, as victims may be deserted by church friends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disclosure of abuse is often met with victim-blaming, denial, disbelief, or outright hostility from the religious community, leading to re-victimization and abandonment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contexts-of-Spiritual-Abuse\"><\/span>Contexts of Spiritual Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Spiritual abuse is a broad concept that can occur in various settings, from highly organized religious institutions to intimate interpersonal relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cults and Extreme Religious Groups\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Characterized by strong authoritarianism, where members often lose their sense of self and face extreme difficulty leaving.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cult involvement is conceptualized as creating traumatic memories with symptoms similar to PTSD.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Christian Communities\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Much of the existing literature on spiritual abuse focuses on experiences within Protestant denominations, particularly evangelical and fundamentalist groups.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This includes the historical context of the &#8220;shepherding&#8221; or &#8220;discipling&#8221; movement, which emphasized submission to spiritual authorities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Specific forms include purity culture and the misuse of scripture to enforce rigid gender roles or control sexuality.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clergy Sexual Abuse\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Involves an extreme abuse of power, where the divine status of the religious leader is projected onto the abuser, making the violation feel as if it were perpetrated by the divine itself.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This can lead to stymied spiritual development in victims and a &#8220;dual traumatization&#8221; \u2013 from the abuse itself and the institution&#8217;s often unsupportive or denying response.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indigenous Communities (Historical Trauma)\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>While unique to Native American experiences, historical trauma fits many spiritual abuse criteria. This includes colonial and cultural genocide efforts, such as the banning of traditional religious ceremonies, the prevention of access to sacred sites, and the forced assimilation in boarding schools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Abusive clergy were often intentionally relocated to Native American areas, exacerbating existing colonial violence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Desacralization and contamination of sacred objects and practices (e.g., psilocybin mushrooms, peyote) by Westerners for recreational or individual healing purposes can constitute spiritual abuse for Indigenous communities, stripping these items of their original sacred meaning and contributing to their criminalization.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attempts to subsume Indigenous spiritual abuse into broader categories without recognizing its specific cultural and historical context are seen as a perpetuation of colonization.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secular and Quasi-Spiritual Contexts\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spiritual abuse can extend beyond traditional religious institutions to secular spaces like psychotherapy, where a &#8220;wounding healer&#8221; might misuse their power. It can also occur in &#8220;New Age&#8221; or &#8220;neoliberal spirituality&#8221; contexts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing that abuse has occurred, having the opportunity to share one&#8217;s story, and redefining one&#8217;s spirituality are crucial steps for survivors to reclaim agency and begin their healing journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-6b1c62f3\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Growth-After-Spiritual-Abuse\"><\/span>Growth After Spiritual Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recognizing Abuse: Naming the Abuse\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Individuals who have experienced religious\/spiritual (R\/S) abuse can begin healing and experience posttraumatic growth (PTG) when they recognize their experiences as abuse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Survivors frequently face disbelief, stigma, isolation, and even hostility from both their spiritual communities and broader society.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These reactions often compound trauma, leading to self-blame, mental health challenges, and difficulty integrating the experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acknowledgment of abuse offers psychological validation, reduces symptoms, and supports healing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognizing that others share similar experiences helps survivors realize they are not alone or uniquely damaged.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Relaying One&#8217;s Story: Exploring the Trauma Narrative\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Survivors benefit greatly from the opportunity to articulate their trauma narratives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sharing stories\u2014through speaking, writing, art, or music\u2014is vital for integrating trauma into one&#8217;s life story.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Narrative expression restores agency, helps resolve confusion, rebuilds emotional trust, and diminishes the trauma\u2019s psychological grip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strong emotions like anger, grief, and fear often surface and must be validated as appropriate responses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Redefining Spirituality: Transformation of Spirituality\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Survivors frequently reevaluate their beliefs, redefining their spirituality and relationships with the Divine, self, clergy, and others.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This transformation often moves from rigid doctrine toward a more relational, nuanced, and flexible spirituality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The process includes deconstructing old beliefs and intentionally reconstructing new ones aligned with personal growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Survivors may adopt curiosity and humility, embracing complexity and space for questioning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>While some may distance themselves from organized religion or avoid religious language, others may reclaim spiritual rituals with new meaning.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Works Cited:<br><strong>Bisantz, L. (2023). <\/strong>Betrayed by the Divine and Overlooked by Scholarship: An Inquiry into Spiritual Abuse and Religious Trauma.\u00a0<em>University of Colorado Honors Journal<\/em>, 161\u2013164. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.33011\/cuhj20231887<br><strong>Giovino, R. (2024, December 11). <\/strong>Trauma and spiritual abuse. <em>Insight Digital Magazine<\/em>.<br><strong>Keller, K. H. (2016).<\/strong> <em>Development of a spiritual abuse questionnaire<\/em> [Doctoral dissertation, Texas Woman&#8217;s University]. https:\/\/twu-ir.tdl.org\/server\/api\/core\/bitstreams\/f591874a-dd01-4883-8363-3f76499cde98\/content<br><strong>Oakley, L., &amp; Humphreys, J. (2018). <\/strong>Understanding spiritual abuse in Christian communities. CCPAS; The National Centre for Post Qualifying Social Work at Bournemouth University. https:\/\/thirtyoneeight.org\/media\/gbsj1haw\/spiritualabusesummarydocument.pdf<br><strong>Ozanne, J. (2017). <\/strong>Spiritual abuse \u2013 the next great scandal for the Church. Royal College of Psychiatrists. https:\/\/www.rcpsych.ac.uk\/docs\/default-source\/members\/sigs\/spirituality-spsig\/resources\/spsig-archive-ozanne-spiritual-abuse-the-next-great-scandal-for-the-church.pdf?sfvrsn=3697843c_2<br><strong>Perry, S. (2024). <\/strong>Religious\/spiritual abuse, meaning-making, and posttraumatic growth. <em>Religions<\/em>, <em>15<\/em>(7), Article 824. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3390\/rel15070824<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/blog\/beyond-cultural-competence\/202302\/the-spiritual-abuse-and-harm-screener-and-its-revelations\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"The Spiritual Abuse and Harm Screener and Its Revelations\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn2.psychologytoday.com\/assets\/styles\/manual_crop_1_91_1_1528x800\/public\/teaser_image\/blog_entry\/2024-04\/pexels-alex-green-5699456.jpg?itok=PssbE62p\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">The Spiritual Abuse and Harm Screener and Its Revelations<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">Clinicians and survivors of spiritual abuse can use an assessment survey to understand their experience.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.psychologytoday.com<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2077-1444\/15\/7\/824\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Religious\/Spiritual Abuse, Meaning-Making, and Posttraumatic Growth\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pub.mdpi-res.com\/img\/journals\/religions-logo-social.png?02ae1e61b1f83989\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Religious\/Spiritual Abuse, Meaning-Making, and Posttraumatic Growth<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">This review looks at how people heal after being hurt in religious or spiritual settings. It studied 10 articles and found three key steps in healing: realizing the abuse happened, telling their story, and rethinking what spirituality means to them. <br \/>\n<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.mdpi.com<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-4de74f26\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legislative-Loopholes\"><\/span>Legislative Loopholes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Florida\"><\/span>Florida<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2025\/01\/24\/us\/christian-group-homes-florida.html\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"How Some Christian Group Homes Avoid Florida\u2019s Standards\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static01.nyt.com\/images\/2024\/12\/11\/multimedia\/00fl-faccca-02-vhtk\/00fl-faccca-02-vhtk-facebookJumbo.jpg\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">How Some Christian Group Homes Avoid Florida\u2019s Standards<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">In place of the state, a nonprofit association has regulatory authority over about two dozen of the facilities.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.nytimes.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/publicsafety\/florida-investigates-unlicensed-childrens-homes-for-abuse-neglect\/1259341\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Florida investigates unlicensed children\u2019s homes for abuse, neglect\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/resizer\/v2\/7VEQX7XDW4I6TPHKIBWI6S7HAY.jpg?auth=6d847f1a6e87d371174850c7ba0c330984455f4fde683b0e814f4ea99bbec199&amp;height=675&amp;width=1200&amp;smart=true\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Florida investigates unlicensed children\u2019s homes for abuse, neglect<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">In response to a <i>Tampa Bay Times<\/i> investigation, state officials have launched a wide-ranging review of unlicensed children\u2019s homes, some of which have been caring for kids for years\u2026<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.tampabay.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/archive\/2012\/10\/28\/in-god-s-name\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"IN GOD\u2019S NAME\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/pf\/resources\/images\/tampa-bay-times-alternate-image.png?d=626\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">IN GOD\u2019S NAME<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">When parents turn to \u201cChristian\u201d group homes for help with a troubled child, religion can be an excuse for abuse and secrecy. Teenagers have been shackled, beaten, hurt so badly they nearly died.\u2026<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.tampabay.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2024\/09\/24\/us\/florida-maternity-homes-abortion-restrictions.html\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"These Maternity Homes Offer Sanctuary, but It Can Feel Oppressive\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static01.nyt.com\/images\/2024\/09\/24\/multimedia\/24fl-maternity-homes-tpcq\/24fl-maternity-homes-tpcq-facebookJumbo.jpg\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">These Maternity Homes Offer Sanctuary, but It Can Feel Oppressive<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">Unregulated homes are proliferating amid abortion restrictions and a housing crunch. Some limit residents\u2019 movements, contacts and day-to-day decisions.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.nytimes.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridaschildrenfirst.org\/religious-exemption-at-some-florida-childrens-homes-shields-prying-eyes\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Religious exemption at some Florida children\u2019s homes shields prying eyes - Florida Children First\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"max-width: 225px;\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/floridas-children-first-logo.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/floridas-children-first-logo.png 225w, https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/floridas-children-first-logo-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Religious exemption at some Florida children\u2019s homes shields prying eyes &#8211; Florida Children First<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">By\u00a0Alexandra Zayas, Times Staff Writer In Print: Sunday, October 28, 2012 They shaved him bald that first morning in 2008, put him in an orange jumpsuit and made him exercise past dark. Through the night, as he slept on the floor, they forced him awake for more. The sun had not yet risen over the [\u2026]<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.floridaschildrenfirst.org<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-f0d85e19\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Medical-Neglect\"><\/span>Medical Neglect<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pewresearch.org\/short-reads\/2016\/08\/12\/most-states-allow-religious-exemptions-from-child-abuse-and-neglect-laws\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Most states allow religious exemptions from child abuse and neglect laws\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pewresearch.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2016\/08\/FT_16.08.12_churchAbuseLaws_640px.png?w=640&amp;h=628&amp;crop=1\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Most states allow religious exemptions from child abuse and neglect laws<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">All states prosecute parents whose children come to severe harm through neglect. But in thirty-four states (as well as the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico), there are exemptions in the civil child abuse statutes when medical treatment for a child conflicts with the religious beliefs of parents.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.pewresearch.org<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Texas\"><\/span>Texas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/revealnews.org\/article\/heres-how-people-are-trying-to-protect-kids-at-religious-day-cares\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Here\u2019s how people are trying to protect kids at religious day cares - Reveal\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/revealnews.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/DONE___CHILD_LEFT_IN_VAN_22_10382595-1.jpg?fit=3504%2C2336&amp;ssl=1\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Here\u2019s how people are trying to protect kids at religious day cares &#8211; Reveal<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">The federal government, several state legislatures and local health departments have decided that granting faith-based day cares too much freedom puts children at risk.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">revealnews.org<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inthesetimes.com\/article\/faith-no-more\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Faith No More\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Faith No More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">Texas\u2019 record shows dangers of faith-based policy<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">inthesetimes.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/archive\/politics\/2000\/05\/05\/george-w-bush-the-record-in-texas\/4a96a1df-7f96-4b23-a070-5087cc966139\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"George W. Bush: The Record in Texas\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/wp-apps\/imrs.php?src=https:\/\/arc-anglerfish-washpost-prod-washpost.s3.amazonaws.com\/public\/RUGLRTKULZB6XPESJMXXJVLTDI.jpeg&amp;w=1440\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">George W. Bush: The Record in Texas<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">CORPUS CHRISTI, Tex. &#8212; Over the door of one church-based drug treatment center in Houston, a sign printed in foot-high letters announces: \u201cDrug Addiction Is NOT a Disease. It\u2019s a Sin.\u201d At another, clients pass by a poster of an addict in a hospital bed, ripping IV tubes out of his arms and throwing his pills in the garbage. An angel hovers nearby, offering her protection from this plague of prescriptions.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.washingtonpost.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasmonthly.com\/news-politics\/remember-the-christian-alamo\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Remember the Christian Alamo\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/txmo-img\/extra-files\/tm-logo-black.svg\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Remember the Christian Alamo<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">This 2001 Texas Monthly article by Pamela Colloff investigates the abusive legacy of Lester Roloff\u2019s Rebekah Home for Girls in Texas, where \u201cBible discipline\u201d included physical abuse, isolation, and forced worship. Despite decades of legal battles and state shutdowns, Roloff\u2019s successor Wiley Cameron reopened the home under a 1997 law backed by then-Governor George W. Bush, which allowed faith-based facilities to bypass state oversight. Survivor DeAnne Dawsey\u2019s story of abuse helped expose the dangers of religious deregulation.<br \/>\n<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.texasmonthly.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-cd209121\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Missouri\"><\/span>Missouri<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/missouri-boarding-schools-advocacy-group-23fb495871041047659b0311f26d47e6\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Abuse victim advocates pushing Missouri AG to investigate Christian boarding schools\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dims.apnews.com\/dims4\/default\/05b3dda\/2147483647\/strip\/true\/crop\/2016x1134+0+105\/resize\/1440x810!\/quality\/90\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.apnews.com%2Fe5%2Fdc%2F1b4c9d5d037bd81c6f5ae4a85435%2Fd5d2e42918bd4433a3293e5dee8f9444\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Abuse victim advocates pushing Missouri AG to investigate Christian boarding schools<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">Advocates for victims of abuse at Missouri boarding schools are urging the state\u2019s attorney general to launch an investigation, work with local prosecutors and take other steps aimed at stemming the tide of abuse.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">apnews.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/news\/politics-government\/article287221545.html\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"\u2018Shocked that it\u2019s come up again.\u2019 Critics say MO bill could undo new boarding school law\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/latest-news\/70pt5q\/picture249903378\/alternates\/LANDSCAPE_1140\/fitted%20circle%20of%20hope.jpg\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">\u2018Shocked that it\u2019s come up again.\u2019 Critics say MO bill could undo new boarding school law<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">\u201cThis bill raises a lot of serious concerns,\u201d said Rep. Rudy Veit, R-Wardsville, a co-sponsor of the 2021 legislation. \u201cIt basically looks like an attempt to undo a lot of what we did three years ago. \u201d<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.kansascity.com<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/news\/politics-government\/article251397488.html\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"\u2018We are finally being heard.\u2019 Students cheer as Missouri passes reform school bill\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/latest-news\/70pt5q\/picture249903378\/alternates\/LANDSCAPE_1140\/fitted%20circle%20of%20hope.jpg\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">\u2018We are finally being heard.\u2019 Students cheer as Missouri passes reform school bill<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">\u201cThis particular legislation is some of the most important that we are going to pass in this entire year,\u201d said Rep. Dave Griffith, R-Jefferson City.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.kansascity.com<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resources-for-All-Survivors\"><\/span>Resources for All Survivors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tearsofeden.org\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Tears of Eden: Supporting survivors of Spiritual Abuse and Religious Trauma\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/5e9f4ce1d7ef80704c9e778c\/t\/603183feb2553905badc02db\/1613857793886\/Trasparency_1.png?format=1500w\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Tears of Eden: Supporting survivors of Spiritual Abuse and Religious Trauma<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">Community and resource for survivors of spiritual abuse.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.tearsofeden.org<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reclamationcollective.com\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"Reclamation Collective\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/5e6e87f2c2dd7d4668623513\/t\/657cb8543bc9296e030b8808\/1702672468351\/RC+logo.png?format=1500w\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">Reclamation Collective<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">The Reclamation Collective is a 501c3 organization centering survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse by curating virtual support groups for those navigating deconstruction and reclamation on their healing trajectory. <\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.reclamationcollective.com<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resources-for-Christian-Survivors-Advocates\"><\/span>Resources for Christian Survivors &amp; Advocates<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sojo.net\/articles\/what-spiritual-abuse-church-and-how-do-we-heal-it\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"What Is Spiritual Abuse? And How Do We Heal From It?\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sojo.net\/sites\/default\/files\/blog\/untitled_design_32_1.png\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">What Is Spiritual Abuse? And How Do We Heal From It?<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\">An interview with Rachael Clinton Chen about how to recognize and heal from spiritual abuse, both individually and communally.<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">sojo.net<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"vlp-link-container vlp-layout-spotlight wp-block-visual-link-preview-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.netgrace.org\/\" class=\"vlp-link\" title=\"GRACE\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-side\"><div class=\"vlp-block-4 vlp-link-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/5b0a335c45776ee022efd309\/t\/5cd5d5a66e9a7f3fc73dc305\/1618093834591\/Social+Sharing+Image.jpg?format=1500w\" style=\"max-width: 1024px; max-height: 1024px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vlp-layout-zone-main\"><div class=\"vlp-block-0 vlp-link-title\">GRACE<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-1 vlp-link-summary\"><p>Empowering Christian communities to recognize and respond to child abuse.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-2 vlp-link-button\">Read More<\/div><div class=\"vlp-block-3 vlp-link-url\">www.netgrace.org<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#What-is-Spiritual-Abuse\" >What is Spiritual Abuse?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Defining-Characteristics-of-Spiritual-Abuse\" >Defining Characteristics of Spiritual Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Impacts-of-Spiritual-Abuse\" >Impacts of Spiritual Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Contexts-of-Spiritual-Abuse\" >Contexts of Spiritual Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Growth-After-Spiritual-Abuse\" >Growth After Spiritual Abuse<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Legislative-Loopholes\" >Legislative Loopholes<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Florida\" >Florida<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Medical-Neglect\" >Medical Neglect<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Texas\" >Texas<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Missouri\" >Missouri<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Resources-for-All-Survivors\" >Resources for All Survivors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/kidsoverprofits.org\/staging\/spiritual-abuse-religious-trauma\/#Resources-for-Christian-Survivors-Advocates\" >Resources for Christian Survivors &amp; Advocates<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Spiritual abuse is a significant form of mistreatment that occurs when religious or spiritual beliefs and authority are misused or exploited to harm individuals. This phenomenon is increasingly recognized for its lasting damage to victims&#8217; sense of identity, well-being, and mental health.: Defining Characteristics of Spiritual Abuse Spiritual abuse is characterized by a systematic pattern&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[80],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2551","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-editorials"],"acf":[],"mb":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Spiritual Abuse &amp; Religious Trauma - Staging<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Spiritual Abuse &amp; Religious Trauma - Staging\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Spiritual abuse is a significant form of mistreatment that occurs when religious or spiritual beliefs and authority are misused or exploited to harm individuals. 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