Individuals often seek solace and faith in religion, especially in challenging times. It becomes deeply troubling when individuals with spiritual authority exploit their positions, leading to diminished trust in religious institutions.

Clergy sexual misconduct arises when a religious authority misuses its position to engage in inappropriate or harmful sexual behavior with another. This can involve adults or children and might include inappropriate conversations, physical contact, sharing of explicit content, unwanted jokes, or violating personal boundaries. It can manifest in various ways, from unwarranted calls to undue pressures.

Such exploitation hinges on the abuser’s dominance, often causing the victim to feel vulnerable, leading them to acquiesce out of apprehension.

In some instances, the inappropriate relationship may be misconstrued as mutual or consensual. However, if one party feels obligated or coerced due to the religious leader’s influence, genuine consent is absent.

Currently, thirteen states in the U.S. have legislations that specifically prevent religious figures from committing sexual misconduct with adults.

Many who attend church view clergy as a source of guidance and counsel. Acts of sexual impropriety tarnish this sacred bond, breeding skepticism and doubt.