ChatGPT driving rise in reports of ‘satanic’ organised ritual abuse, UK experts say
Summary
Reports of organized ritual abuse, specifically "witchcraft, spirit possession and spiritual abuse" (WSPRA), are increasing in the UK, with ChatGPT identified as a contributing factor. UK experts note that WSPRA offending often involves sexual abuse, violence, and neglect, characterized by ritualistic elements influenced by satanism, fascism, or esoteric religious beliefs used to control victims. Police indicate that WSPRA against children is significantly under-reported due to the lack of a specific modern-day charge. Survivors of "satanic" sexual violence are reportedly using AI tools like ChatGPT for therapeutic purposes, which may be leading to more disclosures.
Key takeaway
For social workers and law enforcement officials addressing child protection, the rise in WSPRA reports linked to ChatGPT suggests a need to re-evaluate current reporting mechanisms and support structures. Your teams should investigate how AI tools are being used by survivors to disclose abuse and consider integrating such tools into safe, supervised therapeutic contexts to encourage further reporting and provide appropriate care.
Key insights
ChatGPT's use by survivors is increasing reports of under-recognized ritual abuse in the UK.
Principles
- Ritual abuse is under-reported.
- AI tools can facilitate disclosure.
In practice
- Consider AI tools for survivor support.
- Review reporting mechanisms for ritual abuse.
Topics
- ChatGPT
- Ritual Abuse
- Spiritual Abuse
- Child Protection
- AI in Therapy
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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian.