Theological Stockholm Syndrome

Continued emotional loyalty to harmful theology or religious authority due to conditioning or fear

• You still feel loyal to a pastor who manipulated or abused you.

• You defend doctrines that once made you feel ashamed or unworthy.

• You feel guilt for questioning teachings you know harmed others.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Trauma bonding can develop with abusive religious figures or systems.

• Cognitive dissonance and shame often accompany these experiences.

• Internalized spiritual abuse narratives can delay healing.