| There has been controversy over the validity of ritual abuse claims throughout history. While more and more accounts are coming forth on this topic, many people are still skeptical of the credibility of these accounts. This is mostly due to the lack of knowledge people have about ritual abuse. The controversy is abetted by lack of a universal definition. No guidelines are in place at the state, local, or national levels to track and follow reports of ritual abuse, and therefore, no data can be given about its prevalence.; In the interests of gaining a thorough understanding of the nature of ritual abuse and its treatment, an investigation into problems of and implications surrounding lack of a universal definition has been conducted. In addition, the survivors' frequent utilization of dissociative defenses in managing the extreme trauma of ritual abuse makes it imperative for psychological practitioners to understand factors regarding treatment of dissociative identity disorder. Also, education relating to public skepticism and the role programming and mind control play in ritual abuse is critical for both treatment and to achieve a balanced perspective amidst the controversy. Therefore, reasons for public skepticism have been provided. With these factors in mind, therapeutic approaches that are best fit for this type of trauma have been delineated. This study concludes that it is in the interests to psychological practitioners to be apprised of the most pertinent aspects of treatment of ritually abused and the implications of mind control which may serve to stymie treatment. It is essential that practitioners be informed, and able to recognize the abuse and remain open-minded in spite of the controversial aspects of it. Results of this investigation suggest that long-term intensive therapy with special consideration for each client is most beneficial for this population. The review also stresses the need for more extensive long-term research to be done in the area of ritual abuse. |
