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[INTRO GLOSSARY TEXT]
A single act or more commonly a pattern of acts and behaviours that cause harm, intimidates, isolates and/or controls another person. Theses actions may be subtle or obviously violent. The following types of abuse can occur singularly or intesect: spiritual, psychological, emotional, verbal, physical, sexual, financial, immigration, organizational or instiutional, child, elder.
Taking advantage of a privileged position to exploit or cause harm to individuals and/or community.
Placing a limit on one’s own and another’s actions. Boundary setting is important for self-preservation and to avoid harming others.
The ability to make an informed decision about one’s safety and welfare. One’s capacity to consent is impeded by mental health status, intoxication by medication/drug/alcohol, age or cognitive function.
A shocking or deeply upsetting event which shatters the sense of purpose and identity of a community.
A communal experiences of uncertainty and confusion about what is right and what is wrong; this may occur when a community experiences or learns about abuse committed by someone they consider a moral exemplar.
A quality of a community or a goal. An organization that takes community safety seriously will have a holistic approach which includes 1) preaching and teaching non-oppression/non-abuse, 2) regulations and infrastructure to prevent harm, by for example, vetting and supervising staff 3) have effective complaint and accountability procedures and processes so harms are reported, victims experience justice, and abusers will be deterred from offending.
A person’s voluntary agreement. In relation to sexual contact, most jurisdictions specify that consent is positive, active and ongoing, and can be revoked at any time. Consenting to one kind of sexual act does not mean that consent is given for another sexual act or kind of activity. Consent is NOT obtained when a person is incapable of consenting – for example due to intoxication by drugs/alcohol/mental health, unconscious, cognitive incapacity, or where a person is induced to engage in the activity by someone abusing a position of trust, power or authority.
Adaptive and maladaptive behaviours and thoughts which help to manage internal and external stress.
A form of therapy with a licenced and regulated mental health professional; a safe and confidential environment for a person to explore their challenges in a supportive manner.
A psychology term referring to the caregiver unconsciously projecting their past experiences, feelings and fantasies onto the patient
A study of how men’s identities and roles in society are defined and explained so that false definitions and ideals of masculinity as violent or oppressive can be uncovered.
A cultural belief or practice which blocks positive action. Some cultural practices block people from acting justly or otherwise acting on their religious values. For example, if it is considered shameful in a culture for children to talk about their bodies with parents, this could prevent them from identifying and reporting sexual abuse.
A form of harm which occurs when both parties in an abusive situation also experience forms of oppression, including anti-Black racism and Islamophobia. Cultural betrayal trauma has an impact on whether the victim discloses their abuse and seek mental health care services, as they may fear negatively portraying their community, or losing their community connections.
A change of values, beliefs and attitudes of a community/society to make sustainable long term change possible.
The verbal sharing of one’s personal experience of abuse and/or harm to a trusted individual without the expectation of a formal action being taken. An informal disclosure may occur between the survivor and a family member, a friend, a community member, or in a more formal scenario with an educator, mental health professional and/or authoratiative figure.
When a care professional has another, additional kind of relationship, such as a business or intimate relationship, with a person who is in their professional care.
The obligation of a person or organization to avoid acts or omissions which are likely to cause harm to others.
Internalised severe guilt and self-blame.
A state mental health, enabling a person to cope with most of life’s challenges and maintain a positive outlook on life.
To engage in behaviour which is contrary to ethical standards.
To treat another person unfairly for one’s own advantage and gain.
To treat another person unfairly for one’s own advantage and gain.
Also known as intergenerational trauma. A psychology concept that trauma is passed on from one generation to another, impacting the emotional, physical and mental well-being of the next generation.
A process by which a person in a position of power or influence skillfully builds a false sense of trust with an individual while manipulating them into situations in which they can more easily commit abuse while simultaneously preventing disclosure and detection. Communities may also be groomed by an abuser so that they ignore red flags and disbelieve disclosures of abuse about that person.
Physical and/or mental injury, pain or suffering caused intentionally or unintentionally.
The inability to make informed decisions and give true consent. The ability to consent can be damaged by chronic abuse, grooming, intoxication by drug/alcohol/medication, or cognitive function.
Having sufficient information and understanding about the issue at hand, including rights and responsibilities , impact and right to remove consent before giving permission.
Physical and/or mental injury, pain or suffering caused intentionally or unintentionally.
Controlling a person or influencing their behaviour, thoughts or feelings for personal advantage.
To take something from where it belongs and use it in an inappropriate way. For example, a person may misuse religious values, ahadith and Quranic verses to justify harmful behaviour.
Using power and control that comes from a leadership position to harm or oppress others or for personal gain.
A state of uncertainty about what is right and what is wrong that can occur when a person experiences harm from a moral exemplar or spiritual leader.
When each person in a relationship has some vulnerabilities, which, although different, may cause them to behave in ways that are unethical or harmful to themselves or others.
A trauma response of Fight, Flight, Freeze and/or Fawn due to trauma, coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual or physical abuse
A state of uncertainty about what is right and what is wrong that can occur when a person experiences harm from a moral exemplar or spiritual leader.
When a commits sexual harassment, resigns quietly, and gets a new job at a different institution. This phenomenon, known as “pass the harasser,” is well-known in academia and in religious communities.
A set of beliefs about how a victim should presents and behave in order to be believed. Often connected to sexual and domestic abuse cases.
An individual who carries out an act of assault, harassment, or misconduct.
The spiritual growth that can occur after a trauma, often made possible by community support and the integration of the trauma into a religious narrative that provides positive outcomes.
A mental health condition caused by a traumatic event/s. A person with this condition experiences flashbacks, disturbing memories and thoughts and physical symptoms of stress many months or years after the event; their daily life may be greatly impaired by the condition.
Intervening after a negative event has occured. The healing-promoting actions taken after an incident to support a survivor and help them re-integrate into the community if they wish.
When one person in a relationship is able to dominate or influence another because they have more knowledge, influence or resources, among other things. Power imbalances occur in mentoring, teaching and counseling relationships and, when acknowledged and regulated, may benefit the person with less power. It is important that the person with more power in such a relationship does not leverage that power for their own personal benefit.
A person who seeks out vulnerable individuals to exploit.
Intentional malicious actions taken by an individual with power repeating their actions in various settings without acknowledgement of the harm they are causing.
Practices and guidelines which reduce the likelihood of harm occuring.
When an (subjective) event or prolonged stressful episode overwhelms an individual’s capacity to stay regulated, process the feelings necessary to make sense of the experience. In a spiritual sense, this can refer to the wounding of the soul and/or mind as a result of a traumatic experience/experiences.
A symptom of PTSD: the reliving of a traumatic event through vivid and involuntary memories
Inappropriate or unusual behaviours which may signal a potential to harm or dishonesty.
Offering advice, support or guidance aligned with the religion to an individual seeking expert advice.
Incapacitating fear of a religious leader which impedes a victims ability to accurately process patterns in the grooming process.
A belief that a religious leader is of an elevated standing and cannot commit major offenses; contributes to ‘moral confusion’ and uncertainty when harm has been perpetrated by such a leader.
a literal space and/or relationship that is established between consenting individuals on the principles of trust, rapport-building, non-judgement, absence of bias, criticism or reprisal.
Taking full responsibility for being harmed and not recognizing the balance of responsibility. Can lead to feelings of shame.
Taking action to preserve and enhance one’s wellbeing.
Psychology term: Coping/survival strategies to protect the ‘self’ from the traumatic incident/s e.g. repression of painful memories.
A type of abuser who commits multiple abuses, often moving from one victim to the next in sequence.
An intense and complex negative emotion; shame involves feelings of intense pain and/or humiliation from an internal or external belief of immoral or dishonourable manner. Shame can cause a person to feel that they are unworthy of love or human connection. Not to be mistaken for guilt.
A healing practice to process trauma and support mental wellbeing by re-aligning the body-mind connection.
A group of people who gather regularly to engage in religious learning or practices.
Growth in self knowledge and God consciousness.
The negative discrimination of an individual/behaviour based on a characteristic/attribute.
A trusted individual who, with the consent of the Survivor/client, accompanies them to important meetings in order to provide comfort and/or companionship. The support person can also be the person who initially explores options for support for the Survivor/client.
A strengths-based term which centers the resiliance of the person who has experienced harm.
Organisations or spaces run by survivors or the policies, procedures or services are informed by the experiences of survivors of abuse.
A psychotherapeutic intervention aimed at relieving the burden of blame and strengthening relationships within the family.
Sociocultural theory referring to a communal space between home (first space) and work (second space). A space to experience self development, self identity and relationships with others.
A psychological term referring to a person subconsciously projecting past experiences, feelings, fantasies onto the caregiver.
An acute or chronic experience of abuse which disturbs neural pathways and has direct impact on an individual processing and decision making.
Experiencing a profound emotional attachment to an abuser or another person experiencing abuse.
In-built defenses in the body (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) which may be reactions to a wounding, physical or psychological pain.
Responding to a Survivor with the knowledge of the impact of trauma and awareness of not re-traumatising the individual.
Confidence or faith in a person, in particular, that they are truthful, reliable, and safe.
The experiences of trauma work accumulating into trauma for the professional service provider due to exposure to the victims of trauma and violence, such as mental health professionals, law enforcement, victim services, etc. Pertains to the long-term affects of witnessing and supporting trauma, fear, and sensitive details Also known as secondary traumatic stress.
A legal term that refers to a person who has been harmed or injured by a perpetrator. Sometimes the term ‘survivor’ is preferentially used when centering the person who has been harmed.
Placing responsibility on the victim of an injustice for the harm done to them. Often occurs in domestic and sexual abuse cases.
Traits or circumstances which leave an individual at greater risk of exploitation or harm.
A perpetrator who crosses boundaries and lacks awareness or judgment. If highly motivated to change, a wanderer may take responsibility for their misconduct when confronted.
a single act or more commonly a pattern of acts and behaviours that cause harm, intimidates, isolates and/or controls another person. Theses actions may be subtle or obviously violent. The following types of abuse can occur singularly or intesect: spiritual, psychological, emotional, verbal, physical, sexual, financial, immigration, organizational or instiutional, child, elder.
Taking advantage of a privileged position to exploit or cause harm to individuals and/or community.
An attack perpetrated on an individual that causes harm and/or trauma; may be spiritual, psychological, emotional, verbal, physical and/or sexual.
A form of control, manipulation and/or abuse; demanding of payment or another form of action in exchange for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them.
The ability to make an informed decision about one’s safety and welfare. One’s capacity to consent is impeded by mental health status, intoxication by medication/drug/alcohol, age or cognitive function.
A broader form of violence that is perpetuated by a person’s community; can involve surveillance, blackmail, violence.
Confidentiality is typically required of all parties, witnesses and people involved in an investigation process. This means that everyone participating in the investigation process must keep any information they learn through the investigation confidential. Confidentiality protects the integrity of the investigation and creates a safe environment for all parties to share their experiences, concerns and allegations.
A pattern of abusive behaviors used by one person to gain and maintain power and control over another person in the household.
The act of publicly providing information that is personally identifiable about an individual, group and/or organization wihtouth their knowledge and/or consent. This can also be an extension of gender based violence and sexual violence.
To engage in behaviour which is contrary to ethical standards.
To treat another person unfairly for one’s own advantage and gain.
A form of cultural violence involving prodedures to remove partial or total external female genitalia; or other injuries to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes. Also known as “cutting”.
Harming a person by withholding or misusing their money or finances.
On a community level, misuse of donations, community funds and/or sadaqa/zakat.
The activity of controlling or limiting general access to an opportunity and/or a more powerful or influential person. A gatekeeper is a person who controls access, and commonly uses manipulation tactics to prevent a person from access.
An over-arching term for violence that is committed against a person on the basis of their gender, gender identitiy, gender expression, sexuality orientation; real or perceived. GBV can be experienced by any individual, regardless of gender or age.
A process by which a person in a position of power or influence skillfully builds a false sense of trust with an individual while manipulating them into situations in which they can more easily commit abuse while simultaneously preventing disclosure and detection. Communities may also be groomed by an abuser so that they ignore red flags and disbelieve disclosures of abuse about that person.
Refers to a variety of physical and/or mental tools/techniques used by an individual to calm and regulate their heightened emotions.
A cultural-based violence that occurs when a family member/family members believe that a person has brought shame and/or dishonour to their family through their actions, choices, behaviours.
Human trafficking is a violation of universal human rights, and is often referred to as “a hidden crime” due to it’s widespread underground nature. Human trafficking involves the recruitment, forced transportation and complete control over another person through the use of violence and/or threats of violence; for the purpose of monetary gain, forced labour, forced marriage, forced organ removal and/or sexual exploitation. Sex trafficking is a form of human trafficking.
A type of sexual abuse that occurs between immediate or extended family members.
A type of abuse that often involves a senior family member, or a person in a position of power and authority with a duty to care, failing to provide basic needs to another person.
A trauma response of Fight, Flight, Freeze and/or Fawn due to trauma, coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual or physical abuse.
When a commits sexual harassment, resigns quietly, and gets a new job at a different institution. This phenomenon, known as “pass the harasser,” is well-known in academia and in religious communities.
An individual who carries out an act of assault, harassment, or misconduct.
Trauma’s core connection to social standing, socio-political influence, and power. Those with less influence and power in society are more likely to have been traumatised by systematic discrimination and prejudice.
A person who seeks out vulnerable individuals to exploit.
An injury caused to a person’s religious identity and connection with the faith and faith community.
A type of abuser who commits multiple abuses, often moving from one victim to the next in sequence.
Any form of sexual contact that occurs without a person’s consent, including the threat of sexual contact without consent. Sexual Assault may included unwanted sexual touching, sex by deception, or forced sexual intercourse (“rape”), among other actions. Sexual Assault may occur in situations where sexual activity is obtained by someone abusing a position of trust, power or authority.
Any sexual act or act targeting a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression. This act may be physical or psychological in nature and is committed, threatened or attempted against a person without the person’s consent. Sexual violence includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, gender-based harassment or violence, cyber sexual violence, and sexual exploitation.
Misuse of religious authority, status or knowledge to coerce or manipulate others for personal gain. The term can encompass financial misappropriation, sexual misconduct, harassment, and bullying, among other harmful actions.
An acute or chronic experience of abuse which disturbs neural pathways and has direct impact on an individual processing and decision making.
Experiencing a profound emotional attachment to an abuser or another person experiencing abuse.
In-built defenses in the body (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) which may be reactions to a wounding, physical or psychological pain.
The experiences of trauma work accumulating into trauma for the professional service provider due to exposure to the victims of trauma and violence, such as mental health professionals, law enforcement, victim services, etc. Pertains to the long-term affects of witnessing and supporting trauma, fear, and sensitive details Also known as secondary traumatic stress.
A legal term that refers to a person who has been harmed or injured by a perpetrator. Sometimes the term ‘survivor’ is preferentially used when centering the person who has been harmed.
Gossiping and/or slandering someone in their absence.
This is the definition (or translation) of the Qur’anic phrase, al-amr bi’l-ma`ruf wa nahi ‘an al-munkar.
An Islamic principle of how Muslims can live together in community; concealment of a sin should be carefully considered and discretion and respect for all involved parties are highly emphasised. If a wrongdoing violates someone’s rights, there may be an obligation to expose the sin, as concealment is no longer the moral option.
la darara wa la dirar. A Prophetic principle in the hadith: “Do not cause harm or return harm. Whoever harms others, Allah will harm him. Whoever is harsh with others, Allah will be harsh with him.”
Islamic term signifying sacred inviolability.
One of the main purposes of zakat which seeks to address systemic causes of poverty so that all people have opportunities to realize their God-given potential for a full life.
A claim that an individual has committed illegal and/or immoral actions.
An individual with power and/or authority; this person often has great influence, may have governance over organizations and/or individuals.
A person who is considered to have the knowledge and status to state what is right and true in the religion.
The Board of Directors is the governing body of the nonprofit organization such as a mosque, Islamic centre, Islamic school, community space. The board is responsible for setting the organization’s mission, strategy and goals and ensuring its financial stability and sustainability. It is also responsible for ensuring that the organization is in compliance with legal and ethical standards. Depending on a number of factors, a board of directors has varying levels of involvement in the day to day operations of the organization.
System ensuring that each person who holds authority or influence in an organization is supervised and held accountable by a competent person or body.
A set of rules, responsibilities and principles with which members of an organisation or association agree to adhere.
Chaplaincy services in a community setting (such as a “third space”) or in another institution which exists for people to gather and meet to form a community.
An organization that takes community safety seriously will have a holistic approach which includes 1) preaching and teaching non-oppression/non-abuse, 2) regulations and infrastructure to prevent harm, by for example, vetting and supervising staff 3) have effective complaint and accountability procedures and processes so harms are reported, victims experience justice, and abusers will be deterred from offending.
A situation where a person has financial, private, or professional interests that could improperly influence or be perceived to improperly influence the performance of their official duties and responsibilities, or, where the person uses their official position for personal gain.
A real conflict of interest is one that exists at the present time. A perceived conflict of interest is one that could be perceived by a reasonable observer, whether or not it is the case. A potential conflict of interest is one that could reasonably be foreseen to exist in the future.
A person’s voluntary agreement. In relation to sexual contact, most jurisdictions specify that consent is positive, active and ongoing, and can be revoked at any time. Consenting to one kind of sexual act does not mean that consent is given for another sexual act or kind of activity. Consent is NOT obtained when a person is incapable of consenting – for example due to intoxication by drugs/alcohol/mental health, unconscious, cognitive incapacity, or where a person is induced to engage in the activity by someone abusing a position of trust, power or authority.
A community which operates in a manner, especially in decision-making that is open to public scrutiny.
the verbal sharing of one’s personal experience of abuse and/or harm to a trusted individual without the expectation of a formal action being taken. An informal disclosure may occur between the survivor and a family member, a friend, a community member, or in a more formal scenario with an educator, mental health professional and/or authoratiative figure.
The obligation of a person or organization to avoid acts or omissions which are likely to cause harm to others.
Not reporting incidents of harm and abuse to relevant authorities.
The activity of controlling or limiting general access to an opportunity and/or a more powerful or influential person. A gatekeeper is a person who controls access, and commonly uses manipulation tactics to prevent a person from access.
The oversight and assessment of an institution by an external governing body ensuring they are in compliance with the law and best practices.
A systematic examination or research to determine the truth of what has occured.
An ambiguity in legal rulings which allows someone to take an action which would otherwise be considered unlawful.
The adherence to the lowest legal standard for compliance.
Having legal responsibility.
The process of taking legal action.
A structured process in which an impartial third party supports two equal parties to resolve a dispute.
Using power and control that comes from a leadership position to harm or oppress others or for personal gain.
From the word meaning “shepherd;” signifies the person entrusted with the spiritual care of a congregation or spiritual community.
The care exercised by a pastor or ‘shepherd’ for his or her community.
A group of people in the same profession meeting regularly to offer/receive support and advice for their professional work.
Practices and guidelines which reduce the likelihood of harm occuring.
Freedom from public scrutiny.
A formal relationship dynamic that is established based on a professional identity, as opposed to private identities.
Legal proceedings against against someone accused of a crime.
An independent body/organisation which oversees institutions to ensure compliance with professional standards and practices.
An individual who holds a position of authority within a religious community and guides members in matters of faith, practice, and belief.
To notify and give testimony of an experience of wrongdoing or abuse.
Restorative justice is aimed to restore first what the victim has lost in the offense; secondarily the aim is to restore ruptures in the community as a result of the offense and possibly even restore the offender to the community if they are able and willing.
Misuse of religious authority, status or knowledge to coerce or manipulate others for personal gain. The term can encompass financial misappropriation, sexual misconduct, harassment, and bullying, among other harmful actions.
Institutions which certify and hold to account members of its sector by doing regular inspections and have guidelines of employment. Institutions can take action against members violating professional ethics and codes of conduct.
A professional relationship with a senior individual meeting regularly with the aim of professional development through reflection and learning to ensure professional competency and accountability.
The monitoring, management and support of individuals to ensure they are performing their role effectively and ethically.
A robust supervision and regulatory process which safeguards the rights of the religious leader, community and religious institutions.
Personal or documentary evidence or attestation in support of a fact or statement; hence, any form of evidence or proof.
In investigations or in a legal setting, a person who testifies to the truth of something they have seen. Another kind of witness is an expert witness who provides testimony in a particular field of knowledge.
Inappropriate actions or behaviours which violate organisational policies and principles.
‘Secret marriage’ is a category accommodating a range of arrangements that seek to conceal a marital union, typically from an existing spouse, the family of the bride or groom, a segment of the community, or the state.
Purpose of zakah and dimension of Islamic economy which prioritises social justice, dignity for the poor and the responsibilities of the wealthy.
The meaning of hurma.
Islamic term signifying sacred inviolability.
An Islamic principle of how Muslims can live together in community; concealment of a sin should be carefully considered and discretion and respect for all involved parties are highly emphasised. If a wrongdoing violates someone’s rights, there may be an obligation to expose the sin, as concealment is no longer the moral option.
Gossiping and/or slandering someone in their absence.
Prophetic principle in the hadith: “Do not cause harm or return harm. Whoever harms others, Allah will harm him. Whoever is harsh with others, Allah will be harsh with him.” (la darara wa la dirar)
This is the definition (or translation) of the Qur’anic phrase al-amr bi’l-ma`ruf wa nahi ‘an al-munkar.
Inappropriate actions or behaviours which violate the organisational policies and principles
Generally in legal settings: testifying to the truth of something they have seen.
A robust supervision and regulatory process which safeguards the rights of the religious leader, community and religious institutions.
The monitoring, management and support of individuals to ensure they are performing their role effectively.
Institutions which certify and hold to account members of it’s sector by doing regular inspections and have guidelines of employment. Institutions can take action against members violating the code of conduct
Someone who is considered a spiritual role model, teacher or guide for others. This person might occupy an institutional role or simply function as a spiritual authority with a particular context or relationship.
A broad term that includes sexual assault, exploitation or harrassment.
Restorative justice is aimed to restore first what the victim has lost in the offense; secondarily the aim is to restore ruptures in the community as a result of the offense and possibly even restore the offender to the community.
To notify and give testimony of an experience of wrongdoing or abuse
A person who is considered to have rthe knowledge and status to state what is right and true in the religion.
An independent body/organisation which oversees that institutions are complying with best practice standards
Legal proceedings against against someone accused of a crime
A formal and transactional interpersonal dynamic in a place of employment.
Practices and guidelines which reduce the likelihood of harm occuring
A group of people in the same profession meeting regularly to offer/receive support and advice for their professional work.
The care exercised by a pastor or ‘shepherd’ for his or her congregation.
Using power and control that comes from a leadership position to harm or oppress others or for personal gain.
Engaging in harmful behaviours which violate interpersonal relationships and the trust of the community.
A structured process in which an impartial third party supports two equal parties to resolve a dispute.
The process of taking legal action
Having legal responsibility.
The adherence to the lowest legal standard for compliance
A systematic examination or research into an issue
Part of a competent referral system in an institution; which has rigorous processes to respond to crises, including named individuals responsible for dealing with disclosures and referral processes for professional support.
The oversight and assessment of an institution by an external governing body ensuring they are in compliance with the law and best practices.
An ambiguity in legal rulings which allows someone to take an action which would otherwise be considered unlawful.
A strategy to lessen the harms of various behaviours, usually adopted when a strategy aimed at stopping the behaviours is likely to cause more harm.
Not reporting incidents of harm and abuse to relevant authorities.
Varying standards of responsibility expected from a Director when fullfilling their duties depending on thier knowledge and experience.
Reporting incident/s of abuse
An organisation with sound governance which upholds justice, safety and fairness.
Voluntary agreement to a proposal or activity.
chaplaincy services in a community setting (such as a “third space”) or in another institution which exists for people to gather and meet to form a community. They are different from health care chaplains and education/university/college chaplains
An individual who holds a position of authority within a religious community and guides members in matters of faith, practice, and belief.
Having to account, or, answer for, one’s actions or failure to act, especially in relation to a position of responsibility.
“Personal or documentary evidence or attestation in support of a fact or statement; hence, any form of evidence or proof.”
A professional relationship with a senior individual meeting regularly with the aim of professional development through reflection and learning to ensure professional competency and accountability.
From the word meaning “shepherd;” signifies the person entrusted with the spiritual care of a congregation.
When personal and professional loyalities prevent an individual and/or institutions from meeting their obligations
A set of rules, responsibilities and principles which ensure people in an organisation/institutations are adhering to it’s aims and values.
A religious professional who offers spiritual guidance and care in community or institutional settings
System ensuring that each person who holds authority or influence in an organization is supervised and held accountable by a competent person or body.
Guidelines to establish processes and procedures to maintain a high quality of service.
An individual who has the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. (OED)
A claim that an individual has committed illegal and/or immoral actions
Having sufficient information and understanding about the issue at hand, including rights and responsibilities , impact and right to remove consent before giving permission.
A perpetrator who crosses boundaries and lacks awareness or judgment. if highly motivated to change, they’re able to fully take responsibility for their misconduct when confronted.
Traits or circumstances which leaves an individual at a greater risk of exploitation or harm
Transgression beyong the bound of one’s capacity, role or boundary
Putting full/partial responsibility on the victim of an injustice. Often occurs in domestic and sexual abuse cases
Responding to a victim/survivor with the knowledge of the impact of trauma and awareness of not re-traumatising the individual.
In-build defenses in the body (fight, flight, freeze, appease) which are reactions to a wounding physical or psychological pain
Experiencing a profound emotional attachment to an abuser.
An Acute or chronic experience of abuse which disturbs neural pathways and has direct impact on an individual processing and decision making.
A psychological term referring to a person subconsciously projecting past experiences, feelings, fantasies onto the caregiver.
Sociocultural theory referring to a communal space between home (first space) and work (second space). A space to experience self development, self identity and relationships with other’s
Tends to be a longer term, more holistic and exploratory talking therapy in a specialised area (compared to Counselling).
A psychotherapeutic intervention aimed at relieving the burden of blame and strengthening relationships within the family
Organisations or spaces run by survivors or the policies, procedures or services are informed by the experiences of survivors of abuse
An individual who is healing/has healed after experiencing abuse or harm
The negative discrimination of an individual/behaviour based on a characteristic/attribute
behaviours and cognitive actions which cultivate an individuals spiritual connection
Growth in self knowledge and God consciousness
A group of people who gather regularly to engage in religious learning or practices.
A healing practice to process trauma and support mental wellbeing by re-aligning the body-mind connection.
When responsibility is shared among community members and is not only held by leaders. All people have to do what they can to uphold and promote the values of the community.
An emotion: feelingsof humiliation and embarassment coming from a belief of having behaved in an immoral or dishonourable manner.
A type of abuser who moves from one victim to the next victim
Psychology term: Coping/survival strategies to protect the ‘self’ from the traumatic incident/s e.g. repression of painful memories
The responsibility of taking action to preserve and enhance one’s wellbeing
Taking on responsibility for a situation due to a failure to recognise the balance of responsibility. Can also lead to feelings of shame
Showing compassion in relating to and communicating with an survivor of abuse presenting with PTSD symtpms?
A belief that a religious leader is of an elevated standing; Contributes to ‘moral confusion’ and uncertainty when harm has been perpetrated by a leader
Incapacitating fear of a religious leader which impedes a victims ability to accurately process patterns in the grooming process.
Offering advice, support or guidance aligned with the religion to an individual seeking expert advice.
Inappropriate or unusual behaviours which may be signal a potential to harm or dishonesty.
A symptom of PTSD: the reliving of a traumatic event through vivid and involuntary memories
Refers to the wounding of the soul or the mind
Intentional malicious actions taken by an individual with power repeating their actions in various settings without acknowledgement of the harm they are causing.
Power imbalances cannot be eradicated. It is only if they are denied or managed improperly that they become a problem
Intervening after a negative event has occured. The healing promoting actions taken after an incident to support a survivor and help them re-integrate into the community if they wish.
A mental health condition caused by a traumatic event/s. A person with this condition experiences flashbacks, disturbing memories and thoughts and physical symptoms of stress many months ore years after the event, and their daily life may be greatly impaired by the condition.
The spiritual growth that can occur after a trauma, often made possible by community support and theintegration of the trauma into a religious narrative that provides positive outcomes.
Trauma’s core connection to social standing, socio-political influence, and power. Those with less influence and power in society are more likely to have been traumatised by systematic discrimination and prejudice
A set of beliefs about how a victim should presents and behave in order to be believed. Often connected to sexual and domestic abuse cases.
A trauma response of freezing and/or fawning due to long term coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual or physical abuse
When each person in a relationship has some vulnerabilities, which, although different, may cause them to behave in ways that are unethical or harmful to themselves or others.
A state of uncertainty about what is right and what is wrong that can occur when a person experiences harm from a moral exemplar or spiritual leader.
To take something from where it belongs and use it in an inappropriate way. For example, a person may misus religious values, ahadith & Quranic verses to justify harmful behaviour.
The condition of a person’s emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Ensure individual wellbeing in a space through robust referral systems, open design, training, supervision, and affirmative actions.
Inability to recall certain experiences or events; when a person experiences a traumatic event, the mind will often block memories of that experience as a form of psychological protection. The memories may resurface at a later time, possibly causing great distress.
Controlling a person or influncing their behaviour, thoughts or feelings for personal advantage.
The ability to make sound decisions and give consent has been damaged; this can be caused by chronic abuse.
Physical and/or mental injury, pain or suffering caused intentionally or unintentionally
skillfully manipulating a potential victim into situations in which abuse can be more readily committed, while simultaneously preventing disclosure and detection.
To injure, hurt or damage. (OED)
Also known as intergenerational trauma. A psychology concept that trauma is passed on from one generation to another. Impacting the emotional, physical and mental well-being of the next generation
To treat another person unfairly for one’s own advantage and gain.
Transgressing the boundaries of what is expected from a religious leader or organisatio leading to the harm of individuals and/or the community
Possessing and acting upon strong moral and personal values
A state mental health, indicating the ability to cope with life’s challenges and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Internalised severe guilt and self-blame
Varying standards of responsibility expected from a Director when fullfilling their duties depending on thier knowledge and experience.
multiple (often complex) roles a religious leader can play within a relationship with a congregant/community. Potential of ethical boundaries being crossed.
Islamophobic discrimination or predjudice against Muslim women due to both their gender and religious identity
A change of values, beliefs and attitudes of a community/society to make sustainable long term change possible.
In the context of spiritual harm, these would be cultural practices or ideals which block people from acting justly or otherwise acting on their religious values. For example, if it is considered shameful in a culture for children to talk about their bodies with parents, this could prevent them from identifying and reporting sexual abuse.
Occur’s when both parties in an abusive situation also experience forms of oppression, including anti-Black racism and Islamophobia. Cultural betrayal trauma has an impact on whether the victim discloses their abuse and seek mental health care services, as they may fear negatively portraying their community, or losing their community connections.
A psychology term referring to the caregiver unconsciously projecting their past experiences, feelings and fantasies onto the patient
Adaptive and maladaptive behaviours and thoughts which help to manage internal and external stress
Examining how men’s identities and roles in society are defined and explained so that false definitions and ideals of masculinity as violent or oppressive can be uncovered
Community safety would be a quality of a community or a goal. An organization that takes community safety seriously will have a holistic approach that includes 1) preaching and teaching non-oppression/non-abuse, 2) regulations and infrastructure to prevent harm, will vet and supervise staff 3) have effective complaint and accountability procedures and processes so harms are reported, victims experience justice, and abusers will be deterred from offending.
Taking the initiative to show care and compassion via proactive actions that support others in the community and remove obstacles in their way so they can develop their capacities and meet their goals
Collective trauma is a shocking event that shatters the sense of purpose and identity of a community
Counselling provided by a licensed mental health professional. Professional counsellors undergo many years of postgraduate education, supervised internships, rigorous background checks, and must adhere to a professional code of conduct and practice.
the ability to make an informed decision about one’s safety and welfare.
A boundary violation is to cross the limits of what is acceptable for a care provider and engage in behaviour that causes harm.
A boundary crossing is to engage in behaviour that is typically discouraged for a care provider, but might be done once out of necessity or to avoid a greater harm.
A visible limit which separates people or, a non-visible limit which divides actions into what is typically acceptable from what is typically unacceptable.
A single traumatic event (like an assault) can cause intense distress. Depending on a person’s medical history and the event’s severity, it may lead to symptoms or PTSD.
Taking advantage of a privileged position to exploit and cause harm to individuals and/or community
Harm or injurity which is repeated and sustained over a long period of time. Chronic abuse can negatively affect overall health, cause neuropsychological changes and PTSD.
To cause intentional harm or injury to an individual
An individual who has been harmed or injured by a perpetrator
A person who seeks out vulnerable individuals to exploit. They are unremorseful and lack conscience. even if highly motivated to change; they’re unlikely to take responsibility for their misconduct when confronted.
An individual who carries out an act of assault, harassment, or misconduct.
To treat another person unfairly for one’s own advantage and gain.
A form of talking therapy; talking to a trained professional about difficulties and challenges in a safe and confidential environment. The counsellor listens and may offer interventions for the client/patient to practice.
A body of people who live in the same place or frequently gather and engage in group activities around shared values or identity.
Incapacitating fear of a religious leader which impedes the congregants/communities ability to accurately process patterns in the grooming process.
Community experiences a state of uncertainty about what is right and what is wrong that can occur when a person experiences harm from a moral exemplar or spiritual leader.
An individual whom repeatedly carries out acts of assault, harassment, misconduct
Prophetic principle in the hadith: “Do not cause harm or return harm. Whoever harms others, Allah will harm him. Whoever is harsh with others, Allah will be harsh with him.” (la darara wa la dirar)
Practices and guidelines which reduce the likelihood of harm occuring
The care exercised by a pastor or ‘shepherd’ for his or her congregation.
Using power and control that comes from a leadership position to harm or oppress others or for personal gain.
Part of a competent referral system in an institution; which has rigorous processes to respond to crises, including named individuals responsible for dealing with disclosures and referral processes for professional support.
A strategy to lessen the harms of various behaviours, usually adopted when a strategy aimed at stopping the behaviours is likely to cause more harm.
Reporting incident/s of abuse
Voluntary agreement to a proposal or activity.
pain or wounding to an individual’s spiritual wellbeing, Imaan or Connection with Allah and Islam, muslim community
Misuse of religious authority, status or knowledge to coerce or manipulate others for personal gain. The term can encompass financial misappropriation, sexual misconduct, harassment, and bullying, among other things harmful actions.
Making unwanted sexual contact with another person.
Intentionally making sexual contact with another person without their consent
An injury caused to a person’s religious identity and connection with the faith and faith community.
“The penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.”
Having power and control of another by exploiting their finances by taking their money or withholding finances from.
A pattern of abusive behaviors used by one person to gain and maintain power and control over another person in the household.
Physically or verbally attacking an individual cuasing harm
A type of abuser who moves from one victim to the next victim
A trauma response of freezing and/or fawning due to long term coercive control, emotional, psychological, sexual or physical abuse
A broad term that includes sexual assault, exploitation or harrassment.
What is hurma?
Hurma (حرمة) is an Islamic legal term signifying the divinely-granted right of protection of the human person from abuse, assault, and exploitation.
hurma project © 2024 All rights reserved
Henna Khawja is a Registered Social Worker with a special focus on the spectrum of gender based violence in Muslim communities. With over twelve years in the field, Henna currently works in sexual violence prevention and education with the University of Toronto, and is a Psychotherapist in private practice. Henna has worked with children, youth and adults in community, legal, child protection, corporate and university settings. Henna has also acted as the first Clinical Director for the Islamic Family and Social Services Association (IFSSA) in Edmonton, Alberta. Over the years, she has focused her work on supporting Survivors of trauma and violence along their healing journeys (including but not limited to gender based, spiritual, domestic, intimate partner, sexual, family, intergenerational, community violence). Henna has extensive experience working with Muslim & racialized communities in both Canada and the USA, as well as Pakistan and Zanzibar.
