Quid pro quo sexual abuse is something that often happens in a workplace setting. It means that something is being exchanged for something else. An example could be a CEO offering their secretary a raise or a promotion in exchange for a sexual relationship.
But does this also apply to clergy abuse? There are certainly situations in which the same general principle is occurring, and this is why some people do not speak up about the abuse that they have suffered.
Threats by the clergy
In some situations, there may be direct threats by the clergy member, such as threatening a person’s job at the church, threatening their reputation in the community and things of this nature. Even someone who is just a member of the church—not an employee—may be worried about participation in community events or their volunteer position with the church. They believe they will have higher standing in the church if they do not speak up about the abuse.
Additionally, it is important to remember that clergy members often present themselves in a position of authority when it comes to the religion itself. Members of the church may be interested in getting into heaven after they die or receiving blessings from God, for instance. The clergy member could promise them these things in exchange for keeping silent about the abuse, or the person may be worried about being shunned by the church if they speak up, thereby putting their religious status—and standing before God—in question.
In other words, there can be a lot of manipulation, specifically because of the role of the church and religion itself. It is important for victims to understand that they do have rights and to know what legal steps they can take if they have suffered such abuse.