It Felt Like a Demon Was Inside Me – Spiritual Abuse in Missions

Abstract

This investigative report explores allegations of spiritual abuse within international Christian missionary organisations. Former members describe environments where confession, obedience, and emotional vulnerability were manipulated through religious language. Some reported being told their struggles were spiritual failures or evidence of moral weakness. The article highlights how such framing can intensify psychological distress and discourage individuals from leaving harmful environments.

It further shows how young missionaries are particularly vulnerable due to isolation, authority dependence, and limited external accountability. The report raises concerns about the lack of safeguarding systems in transnational religious organisations. It also emphasises that spiritual abuse often overlaps with emotional and psychological abuse. The findings contribute to growing global awareness of coercive dynamics in religious missions.