Betrayal of Trust: Sex and Power in Professional Relationships

For generations, untold numbers of women have been sexually exploited by respected professional men whom society considered above reproach. Lately, however, the epidemic abuse of professional power for sexual favours has secured a prominent place in America’s conscience - victims are now empowered to speak out as society tries to understand how and why their pillars have fallen. In this book, women who have been coerced into sexual liaisons by lawyers, doctors, clergymen, educators and other professionals reveal their experiences and the toll it took on their lives. Their stories provide insight into why some women are vulnerable to exploitation and what leads these men to risk their entire livelihoods to seduce their patient, client or confidant. The text also educates about exploitative situations: readers learn to spot the early warning signs of a professional relationship turning towards sexual abuse. New laws and statutes concerning sexual exploitation are considered, with the horal, financial and emotional ramifications of lawsuits. Victims are also taken step-by-step through the psychological healing process. Some related issues are discussed finally.