48 Case Studies 20: If I Tell the Truth, They Will Expel Me

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Biff, a rising junior at a local Christian college, is struggling with pornography and masturbation. These temptations began when he was 12 years old, introduced to him by a friend. At the time, Biff found it strange but stimulating, though he was unaware of the addictive nature of what his friend encouraged him to do.

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Biff’s upbringing was marked by a strained relationship with his father, an insecure, angry, and harsh man. Over the years, their relationship deteriorated, leading Biff to give up on pursuing a meaningful connection. This void of relationship contributed to his deep fear of man and desire for affirmation.

Pornography became Biff’s means of escape, offering a virtual, no-risk way to experience intimacy while avoiding the pain of rejection. While it satisfied his physical desires temporarily, it left him trapped in a cycle of shame, guilt, and regret. Biff is a Christian who despises living a double life and wants to change. However, his college enforces a strict demerit-to-expulsion policy. He does not want to delay his education but finds rehabilitation unreachable, which fills him with fear and uncertainty.

Now, Biff seeks guidance on whether to confess his struggles to the college administration and how to move forward, not knowing how things will turn out.

Case Study Questions

1. How would you advise Biff?
2. Would you recommend that he come clean with the college administration? Why or why not?

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).