Ritual Abuse in the Twenty-First Century: Psychological, Forensic, Social, and Political Considerations" is a pivotal book that delves deep into the unsettling reality of ritual abuse, a topic that transcends borders and impacts individuals from all walks of life. Written by Randy Noblitt and Pamela Perskin Noblitt, and edited by Orit Badouk-Epstein, Joseph Schwartz, and Rachel Wingfield Schwartz, this comprehensive volume gathers insights from a diverse group of professionals, advocates, and survivors across eight countries and seven states in the U.S., offering a multifaceted perspective on a phenomenon that remains shrouded in mystery and controversy.
The book addresses critical questions regarding the validity of survivors' stories, the existence of evidence, the profound consequences on individuals and society, and the historical tendency to ignore or discredit allegations of ritual abuse. Through a series of chapters written by experts in the field, readers are introduced to the psychological, health, legal, criminal, societal, and spiritual ramifications of ritual abuse, providing an unprecedented understanding of its complexity.
"Ritual Abuse in the Twenty-First Century" not only highlights the current issues related to ritually based crime and civil suits but also emphasizes the importance of recognizing ritual trauma for diagnostic and treatment purposes. It brings to light the powerful impact of ritual and ceremony in human life, and how their perversion through abuse can cause immeasurable harm.
Survivor stories, including those of individuals growing up within abusive religious or cult systems, reveal the chilling reality of ritual abuse, its impact on mental health, and the struggle for recovery. The book explores dissociative defenses, the psychological bonds forged by abuse, and the concept of "executive control" in understanding and treating survivors.
Featuring a unique blend of personal narratives, academic research, and professional insights, "Ritual Abuse in the Twenty-First Century" is an essential resource for mental health professionals, law enforcement, theologians, scholars, victim advocates, and anyone seeking to understand the profound effects of ritual abuse and the path towards healing and justice.
