“I Went off the Derech”: Pathways to Relational Disconnection after Sexual Harm in Jewish Spaces
摘要
Studies on sexual harm in Jewish contexts have primarily focused on child sexual abuse in the Orthodox community. However, in recent years, several large-scale investigations have pointed to a broader problem in other Jewish denominations. This study adds to the small body of literature on sexual harm in Jewish institutions and organizations. It utilizes data from a large mixed-methods online survey we devised on sexual, gender-based, and nonsexual harms in Jewish spaces. Here, we analyzed open-ended qualitative responses to questions related to the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and spiritual impacts of sexual harm. Findings suggest that both verbal and physical sexual harm within Jewish organizations leads to myriad and co-occurring impacts that change how people relate to themselves, others, and their Judaism.