The polygamist compound that was recently raided in Texas has been all over the news. Many stories have focused on the children that were removed, who are now in a sort of legal limbo as Child Protective Services attempts to sort out the facts of the situation.

A story on F.A.C.T. net, which focuses on providing support and resources to people who have escaped from cults, adds an interesting angle to this situation. Not only have the children been suddenly torn from the only life, people and homes that they have ever known, which by itself can lead to mental disorders, but they are now facing the outside world against which they have been warned since birth.

What sort of phobias might these children develop? Are they going to be able to make a smooth transition into society, or will they be haunted at night by remembered warnings? Will they be able to cooperate in the investigative process, or will they harbor fears that the outsiders mean them harm?

It is not yet known what the psychological ramifications may be, but I hope that the children are treated with sensitivity and compassion. I also sincerely hope that they are given whatever mental health treatment might be in order.