The Approachableness of U.S. Catholic Bishops as Perceived by Priests

Abstract

United States Catholic priests were randomly sampled to learn about their perceptions of the approachability of bishops. Respondents believed that bishops were only moderately approachable. Six predictor variables were included in the final backward multiple regression analysis (adjusted R2 = .85, F = 125.447, p < .001) to identify the variables that predicted perceptions of bishops’ approachability. Predictor variables were (1) My Bishop Values Priests, (2) I Am Valued by My Bishop, (3) My Bishop’s Use of Power, (4) Most Bishops Desire Power, and (5) Most Bishops Engage in Respectful Leadership. A final variable that approached significance was retained in the final model (Priests’ Understanding of Dual Relationships, p = .067). Respondents were more likely to believe that most bishops were approachable if they felt valued by their bishop and if they believed that bishops engaged in respectful leadership. Respondents were less likely to believe that most bishops were approachable if they believed that bishops were concerned with their power and control over priests. Implications for mental health and pastoral care practitioners who interact with Catholic priests are offered.