Ford Foundation Research Grant

The Silent Majority:

Adult Victims of Sexual Exploitation by Clergy


Although clergy of any denomination can sexually exploit children, teens, men, or women, over 95% of victims of sexual exploitation by clergy are adult women. Adult victims of sexual exploitation by clergy often don't see themselves as victims. Without wider public awareness of the extent and impacts of this form of sexual violence, adults who have been sexually victimized by a beloved clergy member will remain the "silent majority" of clergy sexual abuse victims, suffering in their shame and self-isolation.


State Laws Criminalizing Clergy/Congregant Sexual Contact

Denominational Policies Regarding Clergy/Congregant Sexual Contact

Unsafe In Any Denomination

Psychological Impacts

Societal Myths

How Can You Help?

Clergy, Doctors, Therapists, Lawyers

Professional Codes of Ethics

Young Adults At Risk


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Contact us at: info@adultsabusedbyclergy.org

Site last updated: June 7, 2008. All content copyright © 2008.