…that certain religious leaders do things that contradict the teachings of their faith?
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“Why Is It…?” was designed by Dr. Steiner to address readers’ questions about human behavior from a social psychological perspective in order to inform and stimulate dialogue about the ways in which our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are influenced by the presence of other people. Dr. Steiner holds a Ph.D. in Applied Social Psychology. In addition to working as a university educator over the last 17 years, she conducts individual and group consultations in matters of social relationships and behavior. Readers are invited to submit their questions anonymously in one paragraph or less to Dr. Steiner at [email protected].
Q: Why is it that certain religious leaders do things that contradict the teachings of their faith?
A: Your question is certainly a puzzling one. Religious institutions represent icons of spiritual principles and moral conduct. And individuals, worldwide, look to religious leaders as role models. Considering that religion is one of the most influential social institutions in existence, millions rely on religious scripture and leadership for guidance. We’re taught to “keep the faith” when facing personal challenges in our own lives and trust that, as long as we adhere to our spiritual teachings, all will be well.
Therefore, it’s wholly understandable that our faith be shaken upon learning that certain religious leaders have engaged in behaviors that are in complete opposition to the teachings they espouse. We’re all painfully aware of the mounting accusations involving the sexual exploitation and molestation of children by clergy. Even more shocking is the realization that these abuses have been concealed, misrepresented or entirely dismissed by higher-ranking, religious authorities.
In terms of sexual abuse, many theories have been posed to explain why clergy may engage in deviant/criminal sexual behaviors. One of the more popular explanations has to do with the “vow of celibacy” that’s an expected component of certain clerical roles. Some psychologists feel that it’s unnatural to suppress human sexual tendencies – resulting in a backlash of unlawful advances toward less powerful and helpless others (children). Statistics show that those religions requiring vows of celibacy have higher rates of sexual abuses than religions that permit their leaders to marry and raise families.
However, it’s not only sexual abuse that relates to the contradictions addressed in your question. Many religious organizations, and their leaders, exhibit profound degrees of hypocrisy in other ways as well. For example, some religions claim to have an “open door policy” toward any individual seeking a connection with the divine teachings of their faith. But frequently, a closer look reveals that these religious orders consistently demonize and discriminate against homosexuals, women, racial minorities or those who have ascribed to different religious beliefs.
These prejudices can be embedded in institutional or individual belief systems. For example, my friend (a single, middle-aged attorney) was invited by her co-worker to attend the Easter service at her church. My friend found the sermon inspirational and moving. But, during the service, as the priest shared love with the congregation by shaking hands with each member, he deliberately bypassed my friend’s outstretched hand – dismissing her entirely. When asked why she had been excluded, her co-worker explained that the priest frowns upon unmarried women, as they have not devoted their lives to servicing men.
Contradictions between beliefs and behavior are also exhibited by religious followers as well. Religious prophecies, recorded in the form of scripture, represent templates for moral and social conduct. However, those adopting the teachings of a given faith frequently stray from their guidelines. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the teachings are flawed – but rather that humans have faulted in their interpretations of, or adherence to, their laws. Like offerings from a buffet table, many will pick and choose which laws are convenient to follow, overlooking the rest. I once participated in a religious group that emphasized strict adherence to the laws of the faith. All the typical components were present (love, service to others, fidelity, etc.). However, upon reading the scripture myself – I noticed that one of the laws prohibited the consumption of any animal that had been bred and confined for that purpose. I couldn’t help but notice how many members frequented McDonald’s, Burger King and the like. When confronting these contradictions, my inquiries were met with awkward silence and blank stares.
Ascribing to religious beliefs and practices involves more than attending (or leading) a weekly service. It involves sincere, daily dedication and conformity to the spiritual principles involved – often at great personal sacrifice. We all have a tendency to fulfill our needs for social affiliation (or power) by joining (or leading) organized groups of “like-minded” individuals, where we gain a sense of belonging or recognition. But as religious members, we become role models and beacons of conduct, adding polish or tarnish to the principles of our faith. And while to “err is human” and “forgive, Divine,” we are not excused from the personal accountability for our actions. When it comes to religion and hypocritical behavior, there’s a difference between “knowing the road” and “walking it.”