Applying Police Service Theories to Clergy Sexual Abuse

• In Event: Using Theory to Understand Risk for Victimization

Abstract

The current research seeks to explore ways in which policing theories may also be applied in a similarly closed organization - that of the Catholic church. First, I suggest the similarities and differences between the two organizations with regard to the authority structure and implementation, oversight and reporting. Next I suggest applications of the Continental and Home Rule theory to clergy sexual abuse, using an analysis of research in this area from survivors, theologians and sociologists.

Author

• Rebecca K. Murray, Creighton University