neuroscience

Betrayal Trauma, Perpetrator Psychology, and Witness-Survivor Resilience: A Case Study of Father Norbert J. Maday in the Chicago Archdiocese | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Betrayal Trauma, Perpetrator Psychology, and Witness-Survivor Resilience: A Case Study of Father Norbert J. Maday in the Chicago Archdiocese | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Clergy-perpetrated sexual abuse (CPSA) is uniquely harmful because it fuses interpersonal violation with the betrayal of sacred authority and institutional trust. This paper examines the case of Father Norbert J. Maday, a Chicago Archdiocese priest convicted of sexually abusing minors, as a lens to explore perpetrator psychology, betrayal trauma theory, and the neuropsychological and psychological sequelae of abuse. The analysis emphasizes the underexamined population of “witness-survivors”: children who resisted inappropriate advances, observed abusive behaviors, or voiced concerns, but were dismissed or punished by family and parish staff. Maday’s behavioral profile demonstrates grooming, cognitive distortions, narcissistic entitlement, antisocial tendencies, and moral disengagement, all reinforced by institutional silence. Survivors—including witnesses—show classic betrayal trauma responses, including HPA axis dysregulation, amygdala hyperactivation, hippocampal alterations, and prefrontal suppression.

The Effects of Borderline Personality Disorder in Extreme Environments | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

The Effects of Borderline Personality Disorder in Extreme Environments | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Comorbid histrionic personality disorder (HPD) traits can exacerbate these issues. HPD is defined by excessive attention-seeking, dramatic emotional expression, and sexually provocative behavior . Individuals with histrionic traits crave being at the center of attention and may feel unappreciated or anxious when they are not. They often exhibit flirtatious or inappropriately sexual behavior and rapidly shifting, shallow emotions that may appear insincere . When BPD and HPD co-occur, the person not only experiences intense unstable emotions (BPD) but also has a strong drive to attract attention and approval (HPD). This combination can manifest in manipulative or seductive interpersonal styles, rooted in deep fears of abandonment and a need for validation.

Cognitive Covert Narcissism with Antisocial Tendencies in Extreme Leadership | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Cognitive Covert Narcissism with Antisocial Tendencies in Extreme Leadership | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Individuals with covert (vulnerable) narcissistic traits who also exhibit antisocial tendencies represent a dangerous personality constellation, especially when they occupy positions of power or leadership in extreme environments. Covert narcissism is characterized by hidden grandiosity and entitlement behind a façade of insecurity or defensiveness , while antisocial traits (as seen in sociopathy/psychopathy) include callousness, impulsivity, lack of remorse, and a penchant for manipulation . In leadership roles – from military commanders in combat zones to executives in high-stakes crises – such individuals may outwardly appear competent or even self-sacrificing, yet their psychopathology can undermine group cohesion, ethical decision-making, and mission success.

Borderline–Histrionic Personalities in Extreme Environments | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Borderline–Histrionic Personalities in Extreme Environments | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Borderline and histrionic personality traits represent Cluster B patterns characterized by dramatic, erratic behaviors, emotional intensity, and unstable interpersonal relationships. In ordinary settings these traits can lead to distress and dysfunction, but in extreme environments such as military combat units, remote expeditions, and space missions, their impact may be especially deleterious. These environments demand exceptional teamwork, stability, and emotional regulation; yet individuals with borderline or histrionic traits often struggle with interpersonal dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, and impulsivity. Moreover, tendencies toward hypersexuality or boundary violations can undermine group cohesion and mission focus. This article examines the neurobiological underpinnings of borderline and histrionic personality features (e.g. limbic hyperreactivity, prefrontal dysregulation, stress-axis instability) and analyzes how these traits manifest in high-stakes, confined team settings.

The Effects of Yoga Therapy on Survivors of Sexual Assault or Abuse: A Trauma-Informed Mind–Body Intervention | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

The Effects of Yoga Therapy on Survivors of Sexual Assault or Abuse: A Trauma-Informed Mind–Body Intervention | Melanie Boling, Boling Expeditionary Research

Survivors of sexual assault frequently endure psychological distress—including PTSD, anxiety, depression—and somatic symptoms. Yoga therapy, particularly trauma-sensitive forms, is gaining attention as a complementary intervention. This article reviews evidence regarding implementation, benefits, and limitations of yoga therapy for this population, and situates it within trauma-informed care frameworks.