Abuse is the
treatment of others or self in a way that causes injury or
offense. It harms the mind and the spirit and often injures
the body as well. It can cause confusion, doubt, mistrust,
and fear. It is a violation of the laws of society and is in
total opposition to the teachings of the Savior. The Lord
condemns abusive behavior in any form—physical, sexual,
verbal, or emotional. Abusive behavior may lead to Church discipline.
Those who have
been abusive in any relationship are urged to repent of
their sin, to plead with the Lord for forgiveness, and to
ask for forgiveness from those who have been harmed. Those
who have been abusive should also speak with their bishop or
branch president so he can help them through the repentance process and, if
necessary, help them receive additional counseling or other
assistance. Part of the repentance process may also include
accepting whatever penalties are imposed by law.
Victims of abuse
should seek help immediately, normally from their bishop or
branch president. His first responsibility is to help those
who have been abused and to protect those who may be
vulnerable to future abuse.
Victims of abuse
should be assured that they are not to blame for the harmful
behavior of others. They do not need to feel guilt. If they
have been a victim of rape or other sexual abuse, whether
they have been abused by an acquaintance, a stranger, or
even a family member, victims of sexual abuse are not guilty
of sexual sin.
Victims of abuse
can seek help from their priesthood leader to guide them
through the process of emotional healing. Through the
blessings of the gospel, victims of abuse can stop the cycle
of abuse and be freed from the suffering they have
experienced.
See also
Forgiveness;
Repentance
—See
True to the Faith (2004), 6–7
