Pastorale begeleiding van slagoffers van toksiese godsdiens met besondere verwysing na Postkulte- trauma-sindroom

Abstract

The theme of this study is Pastoral guidance for victims of toxic religion with particular reference to Post-cult-trauma-syndrome. This theme is largely related to the broader theme of toxic religion. On the one hand, religion can indicate a very positive and healthy system that is beneficial to man and helps them to survive. On the other hand, it can develop into a sick system where it eventually becomes a disruptive factor affecting the overall functioning of this person. For individuals who have long been involved in cults and toxic-religious systems, it is usually traumatic to move out, severing ties, and begin a normal life within the broader community. The effect it has on many people is compared in the literature with the experience of an intense trauma with then the typical post-traumatic phase thereafter. In this regard, reference is made in the literature to Post-cult-traumasyndrome or alternatively Post-cult-stress- syndrome. The first chapter of this study serves as an introduction and general orientation with regard to the relevant theme. The second chapter (which also implies the first article) focuses on the post-culttrauma- syndrome. As part of this chapter, Osmer's descriptive, interpretive and normative tasks are discussed. The third chapter (which also implies the second article) focuses on a number of pastoral guidelines and proposed model in order to deal with the Post-culttrauma- syndrome. This also implies Osmer's strategic-theoretical task. The fourth chapter serves as a summary and conclusion regarding the study as a whole.