Disclosure of sexual abuse committed by rabbis: How family members perceive its effects on their relationships with the victims

Background

Sexual abuse by religious authorities (SARA) is a widespread phenomenon, with unique consequences for victims and their family members. To the best of our knowledge, no research has focused on the experiences of family members of SARA victims or their perspectives regarding changes in their relationships with the victims. This study is part of a larger study on the implications of SARA incidences committed by rabbis.

Objective

The current study focused on family members' perceptions of the effects of SARA victims' abuse disclosure on their relationships with them.

Methods

Based on a constructivist-phenomenological paradigm, semi-structured indepth interviews were conducted with 14 family members (mothers, siblings, and a spouse) of religious men who had been sexually abused by rabbis during their adolescence.

Results

Two main themes regarding the relationships between the family members and the SARA victims emerged from the findings: the closeness-distance axis, which covers a spectrum from becoming closer to moving away from the victim, and “Who needs protection: The victim or me?”. Regarding the latter theme, two groups were unveiled: Family members who focused on the victim's needs and protecting him, and family members who were wary of the victim and felt the need to protect themselves.

Conclusions

The findings illustrate the various changes in relationships between family members and male victims following SARA disclosure. The importance of providing emotional aid to family members to help both them and the victims recovery is emphasized.