Shiny and Happy, but only on TV?

Last updated on: June 14, 2023 at 9:52 am By Olapeju Simoyan, MD, MPH

Lessons from the story of America’s favorite TV family “Shiny, Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets” is Amazon Prime’s new docuseries based on the story of the famous Duggar family of TLC’s Nineteen and Counting, and the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), the “parachurch” organization that they actively promoted. I never actually watched the reality show while it was on TV, but since I have been researching and writing about various forms of abuse in religious settings, I recently took... Read more

Abuse is not the same as persecution!

Last updated on: June 7, 2023 at 9:12 pm By Olapeju Simoyan, MD, MPH

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I recently read an essay that outlined the reasons why women don’t report sexual harassment and rape. One of the main reasons given was the gender power differential. Another reason given for the reluctance of women to report was the fear that they would either not be believed or would be blamed for the assault. The author reflects on how perpetrators often wield power over their victims, making them vulnerable. Unfortunately, abused women often lack support from the very institutions... Read more

Toxic masculinity and victim blaming perpetrate sexual abuse in the church

Last updated on: May 31, 2023 at 9:35 pm By Olapeju Simoyan, MD, MPH

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Image by author Several years ago, I gave a talk on recognizing child abuse to the workers in the church I was attending at the time. I thought it might be a good idea to reach out to other churches in the area and give the same talk. Though I... Read more

Why churches need to address mental health issues

Last updated on: May 24, 2023 at 1:22 pm By Olapeju Simoyan, MD, MPH

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May is mental health month and this is an opportunity to address the role of churches and the faith community at large in helping people to cope with mental illness. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recognizes that faith and community leaders are often the first point of contact when people face mental health problems. Their website has a useful resource that provides guidance for faith and community leaders in terms of handling mental health crises. This... Read more

Shiny and Happy, but only on TV?

Abuse is not the same as persecution!

Toxic masculinity and victim blaming perpetrate sexual abuse in the church

Why churches need to address mental health issues

How old was Abraham when he died?