Religion and Violence Against Women: The LDS Church

Abstract

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the LDS or Mormon Church) has a systematic body of doctrines, teachings, practices, and organizational resources to assist members in living a healthy family lifestyle and to address issues of violence against women. In spite of these resources, instances of domestic abuse and sexual violence do occur in LDS circles. The information in this chapter is designed to assist therapists who are trying to provide culturally sensitive psychological services to members of the LDS Church affected by men's violence against women. An understanding of the LDS culture is helpful, if not critical, to effectively counsel LDS Church members. To help reach this objective, this chapter will give a brief history of the church, its basic organization, doctrines and beliefs, and spiritual practices. This chapter will explore misunderstandings of LDS teachings that have been used by some to support violence against women, teachings of the church that condemn any such violence, and LDS resources available. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)