Boundary Crossings: Sexual Misconduct of Clergy

Abstract

Clergy misconduct involves forms of boundary violations, the most egregious being child abuse, but also includes non-criminal behavior (such as homosexuality and adultery) that is acceptable in secular life, but problematic in religious settings. The betrayal of trust has farranging implications, and affects congregations as well. An understanding of the background and scope of these problems leads to suggestions for methods of appraisal and treatment, and emphasizes the need for religious organizations to increase their efforts of prevention.