I think that the Catholic Church would argue that violating confidentiality could lead to people not confessing not only now but in the future. That in turn cou

I think that the Catholic Church would argue that violating confidentiality could lead to people not confessing not only now but in the future. That in turn could lead to numerous souls suffering in hell for eternity. Certainly people who don't share the Catholic Church's religious beliefs may not agree, but it does seem logical that eternal suffering in hell would outweigh temporary suffering during life; even something as horrible as child sexual abuse. I imagine that priests in that situation would pay a heavy psychological toll for maintaining confidentiality. However, they believe that in the long run it is the best, most moral course of action.