Research has suggested that in communities where there is child abuse linked to faith or belief, sometimes there is:
- a community belief in things such as witchcraft; and/or
- an influential person who promotes ideas such as people being possessed whilst also promoting abusing the child as the solution.
Coupled with this, parents/carers/abusers are more likely to have the belief that what they are doing will save the child, the family or the wider community and therefore it is for the greater good.
Examples of abuse include the child being:
- beaten;
- burnt;
- cut/stabbed;
- semi-strangled;
- tied up;
- or having chilli peppers or other substances rubbed on their genitals or eyes.
They may not be allowed near, or to share, a room with family members and/or be threatened with abandonment. They may also be persuaded that they are possessed. Appropriate medical care, supervision, education, good hygiene, nourishment, clothing or warmth may be withdrawn.
Children who have been singled out in this way can be particularly vulnerable to sexual abusers within the family, community or faith organisation that use the belief as a form of control/threat. Exorcisms/deliverances may include sexually abusive practices such as having to undress and be bathed in the presence of others. Child traffickers may use these beliefs to control children.
It should be noted that a child can be abused as a result of faith or belief without these factors being present and not all those who believe in witchcraft or spirit possession harm children.