Religion-justified childhood abuse linked to higher adult anxiety and depression

July 24, 2026 - 13:09

When perpetrators of childhood abuse use faith as a justification for physical or sexual violence, the long-term psychological damage appears to be significantly worse. A new study has found that adults who experienced religion-justified maltreatment as children face quadrupled odds of severe anxiety compared to those who endured secular forms of abuse.

Researchers analyzed data from thousands of participants, examining the link between the type of abuse they suffered and their current mental health. The findings show that victims whose abusers invoked religious beliefs to excuse the violence reported not only higher rates of anxiety but also elevated levels of depression. The study suggests that the spiritual dimension of the trauma adds an extra layer of harm, as victims may struggle with feelings of divine betrayal or confusion about their faith.

The authors note that when abuse is framed as a religious duty or a form of discipline, it can erode a child's sense of safety in both the physical and spiritual worlds. This dual violation makes recovery more complex, often requiring mental health professionals to address both psychological wounds and spiritual distress. The study calls for greater awareness among religious communities and clinicians about the unique risks posed by faith-based justifications for abuse.