Celibacy and Social Disorganization in the Catholic Hierarchy

Abstract

Using the social disorganization theory as the book’s primary theoretical framework, this chapter discusses the crucial role of the family and married priesthood in the social control of clerical behavior and prevention of clerical sexual abuse in the Catholic Church’s hierarchy. It draws on some research studies and secondary literature to stress the social disorganizing factor of the universal mandatory celibacy to the communal life of diocesan clerics against sexual abuse. It argues that the universal mandatory celibacy with its culture of clericalism deprives secular clergy of direct guardianship against clerical sexual abuse (CSA), given the lack of intimacy and social bonding among priests and between priests and their bishops in the dioceses and parishes. Living a celibate and relatively autonomous life, diocesan priests lack direct and indirect social controls offered by marital and family relations which can inhibit CSA. Social disorganization theory recognizes the crucial role of strong social bonding and social controls in preventing crime in organizations and communities.