Many Women Targeted by Faith Leaders, Survey Says

Washington Post reports that a new survey reveals new numbers about the frequency of sexual misconduct among religious leaders. One in every 33 women who regularly attend worship services has been targeted by a religious leader with sexual advances, according to the survey. "It certainly is prevalent, and clearly the problem is more than simply a few charismatic leaders preying on vulnerable followers," said Diana Garland, dean of Baylor's School of Social Work, who co-authored the study. Denominations have updated policies regarding sexual relations between adult congregants and clergy members in recent years, and a growing number of denominations have taken action against such misconduct. Many churches now offer prevention training and perform background checks on those in ministry positions.