Why do priests molest kids?

Answer 1

This may take a while to discuss, so please bear with me and try to read this entire message.

First of all, bear in mind that despite the media's presentation of things, priests molesting kids is a rather rare occurence -- especially these days. Virtually all of the cases you've undoubtedly heard about happened at least 25 years ago.

Second, bear in mind that (sadly) there are a lot of different types of people out there who molest kids -- and the vast majority of them are not Catholic priests or clergy of any other church.

As to the problem of priests molesting kids -- it's a complex issue, obviously.

First of all is the reality that priests are human -- and while the vast majority of them would never molest a kid, it's been a sad reality that some will.

Second, for a long time (up until about 10 or 15 years ago) this sort of thing was not even really seen as a crime -- not just by the Church, but also by society at large.

That's why for a long time, it went unabated and largely unpunished -- not just within the Church, but in society in general.

Third, the fact is (though it's been underreported) that most cases of priests molesting young people do not involve pedophilia.

They mostly involve postpubescent youngsters, and over 80% of these victims have been older boys -- this raises the issue of the prevalence of homosexuals (not pedophiles) in the Catholic priesthood.

Hopefully it's comforting to know that, as I said, priests molesting kids is a rather rare thing -- especially these days since most of these cases date back many years.

In the year 2005, only 21 allegations of child molestation were made against Catholic priests in the USA.

Given that the USA has over 42,000 Catholic priests in active ministry today, I'd say 21 is a very low number.

Of course, 21 priests molesting kids is 21 too many -- we expect more from priests.

Having said that, though, 21 allegations out of 42,000 men means that when it comes to molestation, the Catholic priesthood today probably has a safety record second to none.

Answer 2

Just to let you know, the majority of priests *don't* molest kids. The idea of becoming a priest has become much less appealing to modern society due to the strict rules (can't marry, have to be male, etc.) and the rise of secularism in the country. Fewer people are interested in pursuing their faith, especially to the degree of becoming a leader in a community. So the few that do choose to become priests are often those who don't feel such a great tie to society. They tend to be homosexual, and afraid of their sexuality, I would assume. They are likely very insecure, and don't know how to conduct themselves. Instead of asking why many priests molest kids, perhaps you should be wondering why it is that pedophiles are becoming priests. Maybe it's because of the secrecy (or now a lack thereof) and the fact that in past times, priests were well-respected and highly trusted as spiritual leaders. It was practically impossible to imagine that the very man who preaches about morality is violating God's laws in the most vile of manners. So a pedophile would find security in a job as a priest, because their job labelled them as trustworthy!

Answer 3

First Of All Some Of Them Do Not Do That. The Ones Who Do That Are Sick In The Head And Need Help.But That Is No Exuse To Do That.

Answer 4

Peopephiles were probably created by being abused in those churches. Those with the illness knew the Church was a safe haven for them for too many years so they became priests.

Answer 5

Job Requirement.

Answer 6

Because they have sexual urges that they know an adult will not allow them to act out without turning them in. That is why my husband believes that Catholic priests should be allowed to marry. Jesus was perfect and remained celibate. Priests are only human, they have sexual urges like every other human, and because he doesn't want to jeopardize his job and his life, he acts out his urges with people that won't turn him in.

Answer 7

every time i close my eyes, i wake up feeling so horny
for some priests, the frustration is raising, they are forbidden to have sex, and kids are an easy target. sadly thing, but it doesn't just happened with priests. it's happening everywhere

Answer 8

Unfortunately priest are tested on Catholic dogma and not morality or Christianity.

Answer 9

They molest everybody who`s weak and believe everything that someone tells tem to.

Answer 10

Sexual frustration and the longing of being in control.