Dr. Natalie Atwell, a licensed mental health therapist and consultant to churches, shines a light on the hidden issue of grooming in church environments. She defines grooming tactics and differentiates them from healthy mentorship, while highlighting red flags like emotional dependency and isolation. The discussion covers the dangers of power dynamics and the harmful CEO model in church leadership. Dr. Atwell also emphasizes the importance of safeguarding practices and supporting victims to foster a safe church culture.
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insights INSIGHT
Grooming Defined As Manipulative Elevation
Grooming manipulates someone into believing they uniquely need a leader's guidance.
The leader trims away boundaries to make the person dependent on their voice.
insights INSIGHT
Power Dynamic Distinguishes Grooming From Sin
Sexual sin by leaders isn't always grooming; power dynamics matter.
Grooming requires exploitation of authority that removes real consent.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Ask Diagnostic Questions About Grooming
Ask targeted questions if you suspect grooming, like whether special attention was given and other authorities were undermined.
Use the answers to those focused questions to judge whether manipulation and isolation occurred.
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Is your church safe? We’re exposing grooming practices in the church & offering biblical steps to protect yourself and others!
Join Joshua Lewis and Dr. Natalie Atwell as they discuss the insidious issue of grooming within church environments. We’ll define grooming behavior, explore its subtle tactics, and contrast it with healthy mentorship and discipleship. Dr. Atwell provides practical insights on identifying red flags, responding to spiritual abuse, and creating a safe church culture. This episode is essential for all Christians, especially pastors, youth leaders, and anyone in a position of spiritual authority.
0:00 – Introduction: Grooming Practices in the Church 1:47 – Defining Grooming in a Ministry Context 4:14 – Power Dynamics and Grooming vs. Sexual Sin 6:13 – Questions to Consider Regarding Grooming 11:17 – Early Warning Signs 12:14 – Emotional Dependency and Spiritual Language 16:45 – A Healthy View of Spiritual Leadership 21:24 – The CEO Model and Abuse 23:35 – Church Safeguards 28:18 - How to Support Victims & Prevent Abuse
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