Global Research Project on the Long-Term Consequences
of Clerical Sexual Abuse
A joint scientific study by the University of Padua and ECA Global to better understand and make visible the long-term effects of clerical sexual abuse on survivors’ health, relationships, and civic engagement.
About the Research
As part of a project funded by OAK Foundation, ECA Global and the Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology (DPSS) at the University of Padua are conducting an international research study on the health, emotional well-being, and relational life of people who have survived sexual abuse by members of the clergy.
This research is divided into two complementary phases:
- A quantitative survey, to collect anonymous scientific data on health and well-being and about long term consequences
- A qualitative Photovoice study, combining photography and reflection to give voice to survivors’ lived experiences.
Your participation contributes to advancing scientific knowledge, promoting therapeutic support, and fostering social awareness and change.
Participate
to the survey
Research Objectives
- To understand the long-term consequences of clerical sexual abuse.
- To produce scientific data supporting the development of targeted psychological and social interventions.
- To raise public and institutional awareness of the long-term impact on survivors.
- To promote advocacy and policy development for prevention and justice.
- To strengthen survivors’ emotional well-being and civic participation.
Expected Outputs
The research will produce multiple outputs, both scientific and cultural:
- Quantitative data from the global survey
- Qualitative data from the Photovoice project
- Peer-reviewed scientific publications
- A photographic book presenting survivors’ reflections and images
- A traveling exhibition to share insights and raise awareness globally
Research Structure
The Global survey
The first phase of the research consists of an anonymous online questionnaire, which takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
The survey explores four main areas:
- Demographic information
- Health and individual well-being
- Relational experiences
- Civic engagement and social participation
Your responses will be collected anonymously and analyzed in aggregate form. You may pause or stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
For questions or information:
marta.gaboardi@unipd.it
chiara.sacchi@unipd.it
support@ecaglobal.org (ECA Global contact: Simone Padovani)
The Photovoice Project
The second phase of the study uses an innovative participatory method called Photovoice, which combines photography and guided reflection to express personal experiences.
You do not need to be a professional photographer — Photovoice values your unique perspective and personal story.
Through participation, you will:
- Share your experience through photographs and short reflections.
- Take part in group discussions where your images become tools for dialogue and understanding.
- Contribute to scientific and social knowledge, helping to design better therapeutic and advocacy tools.
All materials will be treated with respect, confidentiality, and anonymity.
Participate
to the survey
Partecipate or stay informed
Support and Contacts
We are aware that participating in this research may bring up difficult emotions or memories.
If you feel the need for support after completing the survey, you can reach out to: support@ecaglobal.org – ECA Global will help connect you with available resources or support services.
Your support creates change.
Every donation strengthens our fight to end clergy abuse worldwide.
With your help, we can amplify survivors’ voices, push for legal reform, and hold institutions accountable.