Abstract
M.A. (Clinical Social Work)
This study aims to explore the help-seeking experiences of survivors of satanic ritual abuse (SRA), who have been diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). This descriptive, exploratory study endeavours to understand the factors that motivate survivors of SRA to seek help, as well as to explore the factors that hinder help-seeking. The researcher makes use of the ecosystems theory as the theoretical framework. A qualitative approach was used to provide participants with the opportunity to define their experiences from their own perspective.
The main themes of this study are aimed to: 1. Understanding trauma caused by satanic ritual abuse (SRA). 2. The effect of SRA on survivors’ macro-systems (belief systems) by means of normalizing the abuse, indoctrination of Satanic belief systems and creating a sense of belonging amongst members. 3. Factors influencing help-seeking from formal (professional services including churches, schools, criminal justice system, medical, therapy and safe houses) and informal (friends and family) supra-systems.
Neither the research study, nor the researcher attempts to prove or disprove the actual existence of Satanism or SRA. The researcher is interested in helping the alleged victims of these types of abuse/trauma to self-disclose more readily and, in so doing, guiding helpers to provide an efficient service to these individuals.