The author explores the psychological, spiritual, and ritual dimensions of religious trauma among queer people, drawing on current scholarship in trauma studies. They argue for religious trauma as an important frame to understand the experiences of queer people in non-accepting faith communities and offer recommendations for congregations and pastoral caregivers to welcome those who have experienced religious trauma.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The author delves into the psychological, spiritual, and ritual aspects of religious trauma among queer individuals through the compelling narratives of eight participants. Building upon current scholarship in trauma studies, the author contends that religious trauma is a crucial framework for comprehending the experiences of queer people in non-accepting faith communities. While previous research has primarily focused on recovery from religious trauma among those who leave religious communities, this study examines participant stories to explore how queer individuals can find healing within accepting religious communities. Employing self-psychology to delve into the depth of trauma experienced in non-accepting environments, the author explores the interplay between the experience of God and sexual identity within these communities. Through these narratives, the author showcases the potential for post-traumatic growth and a life beyond conservative faith communities. Petersen offers several valuable recommendations for congregations and pastoral caregivers seeking to welcome individuals who have experienced religious trauma.

Religious Trauma Among Queer People: An Exploration of Psychological, Spiritual, and Ritual Dimensions

In her book, "Religious Trauma Among Queer People: An Exploration of Psychological, Spiritual, and Ritual Dimensions," author explores the psychological, spiritual, and ritual dimensions of religious trauma among queer people. Drawing on current scholarship in the field of trauma studies, the author makes a case for religious trauma as an important frame to understand the experiences of queer people in non-accepting faith communities. Though previous scholarship has limited the recovery from religious trauma to those who exit religious communities, in this research the author analyzes participant stories to understand how queer people might find healing in accepting religious communities. Using self-psychology to understand the depth of trauma experienced in non-accepting communities, the author explores the experience of God and sexual identity within non-accepting communities. Through these narratives, the author demonstrates the potential for post-traumatic growth and life beyond conservative faith communities.

The Psychological Dimension of Religious Trauma Among Queer People

The psychological dimension of religious trauma among queer people is explored in the book through the stories of eight participants. These participants share their experiences of growing up in religious communities that were not accepting of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They describe the emotional pain, shame, and guilt that they experienced as a result of their religious upbringing. The author highlights the ways in which these experiences can lead to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The Spiritual Dimension of Religious Trauma Among Queer People

The spiritual dimension of religious trauma among queer people is also explored in the book. The author argues that religious trauma can have a profound impact on one's spiritual beliefs and practices. Queer people may struggle with their sense of identity, purpose, and belonging in a religious community that does not affirm their sexual orientation or gender identity. They may also experience a loss of faith or a sense of disillusionment with religion. The author highlights the ways in which queer people can find healing and spiritual growth in accepting religious communities.

The Ritual Dimension of Religious Trauma Among Queer People

The ritual dimension of religious trauma among queer people is explored in the book through the stories of eight participants. These participants describe the religious rituals and practices that they were exposed to in their religious communities. They describe the ways in which these rituals and practices can be harmful and traumatic. The author highlights the ways in which queer people can find healing and spiritual growth in accepting religious communities.

Recommendations for Congregations and Pastoral Caregivers

Petersen offers several valuable recommendations for congregations and pastoral caregivers seeking to welcome individuals who have experienced religious trauma. She suggests that congregations should create safe and inclusive spaces for queer people to worship and participate in religious activities. She also suggests that pastoral caregivers should be trained to recognize and address religious trauma. She emphasizes the importance of providing support and resources to individuals who have experienced religious trauma.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 's book provides a valuable exploration of the psychological, spiritual, and ritual dimensions of religious trauma among queer people. Through the compelling narratives of eight participants, the author demonstrates the potential for post-traumatic growth and life beyond conservative faith communities. The book offers valuable recommendations for congregations and pastoral caregivers seeking to welcome individuals who have experienced religious trauma. By creating safe and inclusive spaces, providing training to pastoral caregivers, and providing support and resources, congregations and pastoral caregivers can help individuals heal from religious trauma and find a sense of belonging in a religious community that affirms their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Weight: 295g
Dimension: 229 x 151 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793641168