Faith Deconstruction And Spiritual & Religious Harm/Abuse

Faith Deconstruction and Recovery from Spiritual and Religious Harm/Abuse

In The New Guide to Crisis and Trauma Counseling (2003), Norman Wright describes trauma as any event that shatters your sense of safety, leaving your world no longer a place of refuge. Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) specifically refers to the psychological damage resulting from harmful religious experiences, teachings, or doctrines. Those affected by RTS often feel lost, isolated, violated, uncertain, and unsafe.

RTS occurs when individuals struggle to break free from a religion or belief system that has contributed to their indoctrination. This often involves leaving behind a controlling environment, lifestyle, or spiritual authority. The symptoms of religious trauma can mirror those of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), particularly in environments where psychological or emotional distress is prevalent.

While religion can be a source of comfort and fulfillment for many, providing a foundation for personal healing and community, others experience negative religious encounters that lead to trauma. Religious trauma is real and pervasive, often leaving individuals paralyzed by shame. It is essential to recognize that there are tools and therapies available to help unpack and heal from this trauma.

Dr. Marlene Winell first coined the term “Religious Trauma Syndrome” to describe the range of emotional challenges faced by individuals leaving authoritarian religions. These challenges can include fear, anger, depression, and a loss of self and agency.

Recovering from religious trauma is a deeply personal journey. It often involves deconstructing personal beliefs, rebuilding self-worth, establishing healthy boundaries, and, if desired, reconstructing one’s spirituality or religious practices.