When I was about 14 (about 35 years ago), all the girls had to go in for their “interview” with the bishop or first counselor. I recall an older girl telling some of us beforehand that we should say as little as possible, and answer “nothing,” “yes,” and “ok,” so it would be short and painless. My friend “Jane” was subjected to a very long interview and was left sobbing, shaking, and red-faced, so upset she was unable to get up from the chair and leave the office. They called a few of us in to help her stand up and leave.
I never told my parents and I don’t think “Jane” or the other girls told their parents either. We assumed that since this man was a religious leader he knew what he was doing and authority to do so. In retrospect, Jane was so traumatized that I believe not only that the discussion inappropriate, but also that he had a perverse interest in questioning and badgering her.
It is absolutely unacceptable that any child should be treated this way, especially an adolescent girl by a 60+ year old man!! It is child abuse. No such “interview” should ever take place between an adult and a child. At the very least a parent should be present.
This is one of the many reasons I no longer attend church.