Using EMDR With Survivors of Sexual Abuse Perpetrated by Roman Catholic Priests

Research on the idiosyncratic effects of sexual abuse perpetrated by Roman Catholic priests and treatment recommendations.

Article Abstract

“This article reviews research that investigated the idiosyncratic effects of sexual abuse perpetrated by Roman Catholic priests and makes related treatment recommendations. The research determined that this distinct form of sexual trauma generated unique posttraumatic symptoms not accounted for within the existing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder conceptual frameworks. These included significant anxiety and distress in areas such as theological belief, crisis of faith, and fears surrounding the participant’s own mortality. This article makes recommendations about EMDR treatment with clergy abuse survivors, based on these research findings utilizing a survivor’s story to illustrate case formulation and the utilization of process and content cognitive interweaves in addressing episodes of blocked processing.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Farrell, D., Dworkin, M., Keenan, P., & Spierings, J. (2010). Using EMDR With Survivors of Sexual Abuse Perpetrated by Roman Catholic Priests. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(3), 124–133. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.4.3.124

About the Journal

The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.