AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Sexual Theology Normalized Abuse
- David Berg framed sexualized teachings as spiritual loyalty and leadership control that normalized abuse.
- That theological framing helped leaders justify removing children from outside safeguards and redefining family boundaries.
Family Publication Advocated 'Sharing'
- Viona Spencer's 1982 Family News article explicitly encouraged children 'sharing' and children's sexual contact with adults as normal.
- Former members recall being placed on 'sharing schedules' with rotations of different men from age 12.
'Reform' Through Purge Not Proof
- The Family announced a zero-tolerance policy in 1986 but simultaneously expunged earlier literature, creating a narrative of reform.
- Former members and critics argue the policy was largely cosmetic and abuses continued in secrecy.


