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Religion and Violence Against Women: The LDS Church

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Religion and Men's Violence Against Women

Abstract

This chapter explores the history, primary beliefs, and religious practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormon Church) related to violence against women. Since 1839, the LDS Church has counseled against any unrighteous use of priesthood authority (D&C 121:39–44). Although highest level leaders and others in the LDS Church have spoken repeatedly against all forms of abuse, violence against women unfortunately still exists among some members of the church. Misunderstanding of church teachings and scriptures, personal issues, and cultural traditions contribute to this problem. Cultural traditions and practices of male dominance and violence toward women in the USA and around the world present a challenge to teaching and practicing LDS Church values. Specific resources are available to ecclesiastical leaders and members to better understand abuse and promote healing in both survivors and perpetrators. Learning to recognize and treat all forms of abuse—physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, financial, and spiritual—is needed if members are to truly live their religion. Understanding basic tenets of the LDS faith will help counselors better assist members of the LDS Church who deal with issues of domestic violence.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Private Practice, Kaysville, UT, USA

    Ann F. Pritt Ph.D., LCSW

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  1. Ann F. Pritt Ph.D., LCSW
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Correspondence to Ann F. Pritt Ph.D., LCSW .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Bethel University, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA

    Andy J. Johnson

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Pritt, A. (2015). Religion and Violence Against Women: The LDS Church. In: Johnson, A. (eds) Religion and Men's Violence Against Women. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2266-6_17

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