Reclaiming the Soul: Meaning Out of Internalized Oppression

Burnside, C. (2002). Reclaiming the Soul: Meaning Out of Internalized Oppression. (Doctoral dissertation, Pacifica Graduate Institute, 2002).

The soul is an essential aspect of each of us. When soul murder is committed, the desire to continue living is diminished; the victim seeks ways to compensate for this injury. Ritual Sexual Abuse is a source of soul murder. The specific sexual acts of clergy against their young parishioners are patterned after the dominator behavior of the patriarchy. Throughout history, there appears a lack of regard for women and children by most forms of organized religion adhering to the patriarchal model.

This study unpacks and clarifies the origins, symptoms and consequences of the spiritual disconnect resulting from Ritual Sexual Abuse. A common thread in every story documented herein is the ability to dissociate. The dissociation was so extreme that these parts or alters began to take charge and control the entire inner system.

The focus of the interviews included was to determine what affect the ritual sexual abuse had on the individual's spiritual life. What was learned? Each woman acknowledged the existence of a "divine spark or light" that was always present during the abuse. It was as if a part of her soul was "walled off" and protected from the trauma. These women felt abandoned by God, parents and community, and began creating alters as a means to create safety and survival. In some cases, particular alters were designated to protect the soul part and to be the recipients of the ritual abuse; thus permitting the core person to remain alive and functioning.

It is my contention that by accepting as divine truths the liturgy, images and symbols of patriarchal religions that marginalize or imprison women and children, society continues to condone abusive and denigrating practices through its silence. No one is saved by silence. Catherine of Siena, a 14th century mystic said, "Speak the truth in a million voices. It is silence that kills." The silence demanded by their perpetrators has been preventing these women from healing. The therapist who chooses to work with these victims needs to be an effective listener, an open hearted witness dislodging fear, and an encouraging supporter of the healing journey ahead.