Response of Christian faith leaders to domestic violence: training, beliefs, and practice

ABSTRACT Faith leaders often lack training and comprehensive knowledge about domestic violence (DV). Yet, awareness about DV is a vital part of a faithful response to abuse. Clergy members and lay leaders need to engage in training on what DV is and the effect it has on families, which will make a difference in their response to DV in their congregations. This project expands current research on congregations, clergy, and DV. The data supply insights into the beliefs and practices of faith leaders. The knowledge gained will inform future efforts to educate faith leaders, increase policy creation, and improve response to disclosures of abuse. With greater education efforts, clergy can better support victims of abuse.