Abusive Cultures in Catholicism

This research team focuses on how cultures in the Roman Catholic Church have facilitated the abuse of power. We seek to understand how the church's hierarchical and clericalist structures have led to the abuse and exploitation of vulnerable populations within the church. In previous years, we have paid special attention to how Catholic leaders have responded to the crisis of clergy-perpetuated sexual abuse. Going forward, we will be developing research agendas that use interdisciplinary lenses to better recognize how power is being abused, while also offering concrete ways to work against the abuse and cultivate a healthier faith community.