What makes child molesters so successful in going undetected?
Dr. Salter: Deception. They are master deceivers, both in deceiving themselves and others. I have found that there are two characteristics of sex offenders:
- It is in their best interest to lie.
- It is something they can lie about and not get caught.
Sexual offenders look for opportunities in which they can minimize the risk of getting caught, and part of doing so is to create an environment in which they are liked, trusted and accepted without question. This is why religious institutions are particularly vulnerable.
Why don’t more victims come forward?
Dr. Salter: This is a very difficult question. In the case of child molestation, often the victim feels as if he/she has done something wrong or won’t be believed when compared to a respected adult. In other situations there are direct threats that force silence, and often the child is just confused by conflicting emotions and chooses silence rather than confronting someone their parents trust.
Many evangelical organizations have also done so—ignoring the victimized, the oppressed and the silenced but making certain the institution lived on, though it be rotten at its core. In every case, the silence screamed for resolution and healing. In response to abuse, we need to stand with Elie Wiesel who said this: “I swore never to be silent wherever and whenever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.”
Keeping the Antennas Up: 5 basic characteristics of child sexual offenders within the faith community
Predators: Pedophiles, Rapists, and Other Sex Offenders: book by Dr. Anna Salter, Ph.D.
Silent No More: Victim 1’s Fight for Justice Against Jerry Sandusky
Anyone abused by John Langworthy in Texas or who has information about this case is asked to call the Dallas police child exploitation unit at 214-671-4211.
A victim of Langworthy’s child sex crimes at Prestonwood has come forward and made a report to the Dallas police. We hope others will also come forward, call the police, get help, begin to heal and protect other kids. It is critical that the whole truth is known.
Anyone abused by John Langworthy in Mississippi or who has information about this case is asked to call detective Josh Frazier in the Clinton police department at 601-925-6106.
The light of truth and knowledge is our greatest tool to protect kids.
Here’s a list of 228 accused clerics, nuns and staff – [updated]
— http://mnsnap.wordpress.com/spooks-fakers-false-spiritual-healers/
— Added: — Bro. Stephen Baker, TOR, — Fr. Martin A. Brady, TOR (Franciscan friar);