In the 1980’s and 90’s, sexual “purity” became a major focus in sectors of Christian culture within the United States. This movement, now referred to as “purity culture,” had detrimental effects, including stunted LGBTQI+ identity exploration, dissociation from one’s body, under-reported sexual assaults, and relationship struggles. Join us as we explore specific concepts taught within purity culture, its impacts & developmental trauma, as well as tips and resources for identifying the trauma in oneself and working through it.

Content warning: This discussion will have a lot of heteronormitive language and heavy gendered language. We understand that can be triggering & stressful, but know it’s intentional because it’s a part of breaking down the core concepts of purity culture. This discussion was held in the beginning of Pride Month and purity culture is especially damaging to the LGBTQ+ community.

Christy Lanterman, LPC counsels couples and adult individuals recovering from religious trauma. She focused her graduate studies on how religious trauma (RT) occurs, religious abuse, how to identify controlling groups/people, and how folks can recover from RT. She is passionate about supporting her clients in their healing process.

Hosted by Eric Wells, the RfR Support Group Director, and Kara Griffin, RfR Helpline Agent.

Recorded on June 7th, 2021

Resource List

Learn more about Christy Lanterman, LPC

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The primary focus of Recovering from Religion (RfR) is to offer hope, healing, and support to those struggling with issues of doubt and non-belief. This transitional period is an ongoing process that can result in a range of emotions, as well as a ripple effect of consequences throughout an individual’s life. We are here to help each other through this journey.

For RfRx comments, inquiries & topical questions, email us at [email protected].

Any time you are struggling with religious doubts or fears you can connect with a trained RfR Helpline agent 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To chat online go to http://www.recoveringfromreligion.org.

Peer support is also available through local support groups. These groups offer monthly in-person meetings as a place to express doubts, fears, emotions & concerns about religion you wouldn't normally feel comfortable expressing in a religious community. Find your nearest support group at http://www.meetup.com/pro/recovering-from-religion

If you are in need of professional help, we can offer the Secular Therapy Project to provide options to connect with a professional therapist. All therapists have been thoroughly vetted by our organization and offer only evidence-based and non-religious treatment. Connect with them at http://www.seculartherapy.org.