Citation

Jacobs JL. Sociol. Relig. 1989; 50(3): 265-279.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1989, Association for the Sociology of Religion)

DOI

10.2307/3711562

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This research analyzes the effects of ritual healing on women who have been victims of abuse, including incest, rape, and battering. The study was conducted through participant observation of a women's spirituality group. The focus of the analysis is on the process of empowerment as it is experienced in a ritual context that provides a means for cathartic expression as well as participant identification with female symbols of power. The findings of this study suggest that women-centered rituals are effective in reducing fear, releasing anger, increasing one's sense of power, and improving the overall mental health of those who have experienced the trauma of victimization.