Psychologist explains the five stages of sexual grooming and how manipulation unfolds in spiritual or authority contexts. Learn how understanding these patterns helps survivors rebuild trust, recognise coercive control, and begin healing from abuse.

Adult clergy sexual abuse causes profound psychological and spiritual trauma. Research shows high rates of PTSD, relational harm, and loss of faith following abuse by trusted religious leaders. This article explores the impact of adult clergy sexual abuse, institutional betrayal, and pathways to healing through trauma-informed, faith-sensitive support.