Coordinating Medical and Pastoral Care in Cases of Child Abuse and Neglect

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the historical intersection between religion and medicine as well as research documenting the potential role of religious involvement in mitigating the impact of child abuse on a victim’s health. The article provides possible approaches for integrating quality spiritual care into the treatment of child and adult survivors of abuse and for working with Children’s Advocacy Centers in recommending ongoing spiritual care services for survivors of abuse.