Geoffrey W. Sutton PhD, Psychology and Culture

Sexual abuse is a deeply troubling event found across human societies. Stories of child abuse are especially impactful because children are inherently vulnerable, and we naturally respond compassionately to those who have suffered. When such incidents occur, as recently reported by NBC regarding allegations against a Pentecostal organization, they unsettle our sense of safety, morality, and security. Our reactions are shaped by cultural values that prioritize caring for and nurturing young people, and by the understanding that the trauma from child sexual abuse often lasts into adulthood, affecting relationships and well-being long-term. In the context of Christian ministry, sexual abuse is one form of spiritual abuse. Although the focus of concern is often on the abuse of children, adults have also been abused in seminaries, churches, and other locations by ordained clergy and church leaders. Clergy-congregant sex cannot be consensual because clergy are in a position of authority. NBC...

Jesus commands the sea Have you heard the phrase, “God is in Control?” I have.  You can see the posts on social media. "It's in God's hands," some say. You would think this is a reasonable belief by Christians who believe in an almighty God who is able to protect His family better than the best earthly father. But when bodies pile up, hospital beds are full, and millions of people just lost their jobs, you might think  everything is out of control . They reported their findings to the Angel of God in the birch grove: “We have looked over the whole earth and all is well. Everything’s under control.” Zechariah 1:11 Governments and public health officials were unprepared for the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020. The virus raged out of control for months. This post is not about blame. I am writing about the belief, "God is in control," which is not evident. Some opine that God works through leaders —even through those whose mora...

During the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, the number of dead people lead news stories. And many people require scarce ventilators to fight for their lives. Scary stuff! Sensible people are afraid.  Sensible people embrace fear as a powerful motivator to take evidence-based pathways to health and safety. Possible Downsides:  When People do not Embrace Fear People who do not embrace fear can get sick and die or kill their family and friends if they ignore sound advice. Ignoring fear can be deadly. The dead testify to the reality of the fear.  Fear is a sign of mental wellness  as long as the fear is real and leads to positive action. The damaging side of fear can happen if we dwell on the fear after taking appropriate action. Filling our minds with misery and death can be discouraging or even depressing leaving us with low energy and distress. Fear is an emotional reaction to a real or perceived threat, but anxiety is an emotional reaction exp...