Ritual Sexual Violence: A Critical Appraisal of Dubious Empirical Evidence for a Doubtful Phenomenon

Abstract

Ritual sexual violence commonly refers to forms of organized sexual abuse with an ideological framework carried out by multiple perpetrators over extended periods of time. Usually, the notion is associated with phenomena like intentional dissociation of personality, induced amnesia, and the possibility of commanding the victims' behavior. As part of a project funded by the independent commission for investigating sexual abuse on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, several articles were published, including an online survey of 165 self-defined victims (Nick et al., 2018; https://doi.org/10.21706/TG-12-3-244). The present contribution is a critical appraisal of the interpretation of the results of the Nick et al. study in particular. In light of comprehensive empirical and theoretical literature, three points can be made: 1) Both the statements on amnesia and retrieval appear implausible from the perspective of memory research. 2) The statements on experiences of ritual sexual abuse can alternatively be explained through suggestive processes. 3) There is no compelling proof of phenomena like the intentional dissociation of personality into several identities. Given the potential dangers for persons confronted with the topic (i. e., confirmation of implanted pseudomemories, nonhelpful therapy / counseling), a cautious treatment of claims about the existence of ritual sexual violence seems warranted, also within publicly funded projects.