Women experiencing intimate partner violence: Effects of confiding in religious leaders

Abstract

IPV is the most challenging mental health problem facing clergy. Abused women (n=476), most of whom are Christians living at home (not in shelters), sought assistance from domestic violence centers. Data obtained from questionnaires demonstrated that confiding in clergy predicts higher self-esteem and reduces the impact of lack of social support on self-esteem, self-efficacy, and life satisfaction. Compassionate clergy counseling can have a positive influence on psychological outcomes of women in abusive relationships. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2007.