The Stop Mandated Shunning pilot study has reached an important research milestone
We have now gathered sufficient data from the pilot to begin in-depth analysis—a crucial step in validating the measures that assess coercive control and mandated shunning within high-control religious groups.
Because of this progress, the survey is temporarily closed for approximately 90 days while our research team at the University of Roehampton:
- Analyzes the pilot dataset
- Conducts expert consultations and focus groups with survivors, clinicians, legal professionals, and safeguarding experts
- Reviews and refines the survey tools for wider global participation
This pause reflects success, not delay. It allows our team to ensure that the research accurately captures the lived experiences of mandated shunning across multiple high-control religious groups, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, Scientologists, the Exclusive Brethren, Amish, Orthodox Jewish communities, the Baháʼí Faith, Muslim communities, and others.
When the survey reopens, it will launch in an expanded global format designed to compare experiences across these groups and strengthen the evidence base for advocacy and legal reform.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has already participated, shared their story, or supported this work. Your voices are shaping real change and helping to build the case for compassion, truth, and justice.
If you would like to help sustain this next phase, please consider supporting the project through a donation.