Exodus: The Cost of Leaving High-Control Religion and Life After Breaking Free

Author

Hannah-Kathryn Valles, Craig Newmark Graduate School of JournalismFollow

Graduation Date

Fall 12-13-2023

Grading Professor

Jennifer Altman

Subject Concentration

International

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Abstract

There are many names for those who leave their faith community—apostate, heretic, dissenter. While there is no singular path to parting with one’s religious beliefs, the experience can be fraught and intensely painful. For those in high-control religious environments, the price of leaving is even steeper.

When identity, social connections, finances, and family structures are dependent on conforming to strict religious and ideological norms, the decision to leave can have far-reaching consequences. For those who do make the bold decision to leave, it’s hardly the end of the road. In many ways, leaving is just the first step toward finding a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.

A growing number of Americans are abandoning their spiritual ties. Almost thirty percent of Americans now identify as religious “nones,” or those without religious affiliation, according to a 2021 study conducted by the Pew Research Center—a figure that has nearly doubled since 2007. The trends toward secularization observed in American society during the 21st century show no sign of slowing down, prompting speculation about the future of religion in America.

This is a story about those who leave high-control religious communities and life after that departure.

https://www.hannahkathrynvalles.com/exodus-1

Recommended Citation

Valles, Hannah-Kathryn, "Exodus: The Cost of Leaving High-Control Religion and Life After Breaking Free" (2023). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gj_etds/713