Pioneering Study on Abuse of Women Religious
Pioneering Study on the Abuse of Women Religious
Sexual abuse of women religious occurs worldwide — including in Germany. This study provides the first methodologically robust set of interviews with survivors ever conducted and evaluated in the German-speaking world. In addition to examining the abuse scenarios themselves, the book offers insights into the lived experiences of the survivors as well as an analysis of the role played by their respective communities. The findings make clear that perpetrators — both men and women — exploit their roles and spiritual ideals to legitimize the abuse. Moreover, the study reveals systemic conditions within religious communities that contribute to creating environments of heightened vulnerability.
With a foreword by Ute Leimgruber
