Betrayal Trauma In Religious Institutions
Conceptual Model
The conceptual model for this study will begin by defining the independent variables, which are the factors that influence the occurrence of betrayal trauma in religious institutions. These independent variables may include factors such as the type of religious institution like the Catholic church, the level of authority held by the institution (e.g., a local church versus a national organization), the presence of abuse or exploitation, and the level of transparency in the institution’s activities (Woodhead, 2022). The predictor variables will contribute to an individual's susceptibility to betrayal trauma. These predictor variables may include age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, and previous experiences with abuse or exploitation (Kidwell & Kerig, 2021). Additionally, the level of trust in the religious institution, the level of religious devotion, and the individual’s cultural background may also contribute to their susceptibility to betrayal trauma.
The dependent variables to be explored in this study are the social, economic and psychological impacts affecting betrayal trauma. The psychological impacts may include symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), along with other mental health challenges. The social impacts may include feelings of shame, isolation, stigma, and changes in social and family relationships (McGraw et al., 2019). The economic impacts may include loss of income, difficulty finding employment, and increased medical expenses.
One key aspect of this study will be examining the experiences of different vulnerable populations in relation to betrayal trauma. This will involve considering factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and other demographic factors that may contribute to an individual’s vulnerability to trauma (Pinciotti & Orcutt, 2021). Additionally, the study will explore why these populations are susceptible to betrayal trauma, including factors such as power dynamics, cultural norms, and historical experiences of discrimination and exploitation. Finally, the study will examine how perpetrators of betrayal trauma in religious institutions face justice for their misdeeds. This will involve considering factors such as the institutional response, the legal response, and the public perception of the issue.
Research Questions
1. What types of betrayal trauma may be felt by those associated with or involved in religious institutions?
2. What are the psychological, social, and economic impacts of betrayal trauma by religious institutions on individuals and communities?
3. How do different vulnerable populations experience betrayal trauma in religious institutions, and how does this impact their mental health and overall well-being?
4. Why are vulnerable groups susceptible to betrayal trauma by religious institutions?
5. To what extent do perpetrators of betrayal trauma in religious institutions face justice for their misdeeds?
6. How do power imbalances and gender dynamics contribute to the prevalence of betrayal trauma in religious institutions?
7. How do systemic, organizational, and cultural dynamics of religious institutions contribute to the abuse of spiritual authority and the perpetration of betrayal trauma?
8. What steps can be taken to increase perpetrator accountability and survivor justice in religious institutions where betrayal trauma has occurred?
9. What role do religious leaders and institutions play in providing emotional, social, and legal support to survivors of betrayal trauma?
10. What challenges do survivors of betrayal trauma face in seeking justice and support within religious institutions?
