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Article
Catholic priests who sexually abuse minors: Why do we hear so much yet know so little?
Psychology
  • Thomas G. Plante, Santa Clara University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-1996
Publisher
Springer
Abstract

A tremendous amount of media attention has been directed towards sexual abuse perpetrated by Roman Catholic priests in recent years. While there are countless research studies on both sexual abuse victims and perpetrators in the professional literature, there are very few comprehensive research studies specifically investigating Roman Catholic priests who sexually abuse minors or studies concerning the victims of priests themselves. While the scientific professional community could offer a great deal to this problem, their voice appears silent. The purpose of this article is to examine what is known about sexual abuse among the Catholic clergy and briefly suggest directions for future research and intervention.

Citation Information
Plante, T. G. (1996) Catholic priests who sexually abuse minors: Why do we hear so much yet know so little? Pastoral Psychology, 44, 305-310.