Sexual Abuse. Shonda and Concealment in Orthodox Jewish Communities

This book--the first of its kind--analyzes how and why cases of child sexual abuse have been systematically concealed in Orthodox Jewish communities. The book examines many such cover-ups in detail showing how denial backlash against victims and the manipulation of the secular justice system have placed Orthodox Jewish community leaders in the position of defending or even enabling child abusers. The book also examines the generally disappointing treatment of this issue in popular media while dissecting the institutions that contribute to the cover-ups including two--rabbinic courts and local Orthodox "patrols"--that are more or less unique to Orthodox Jewish communities. Finally the book explores the cultural factors that have contributed to this tragedy and concludes with hopes and proposals for future reform.

Paperback: 296 pages

Publisher: McFarland & Company (July 9 2014)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0786471255

ISBN-13: 978-0786471256

Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.8 x 9 inches

Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces