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- The term cult is often applied to a religious movement that exists in some degree of tension with the dominant religious or cultural inclination of a society.
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Sep 26, 2024 · cult, usually small group devoted to a person, idea, or philosophy. The term cult is often applied to a religious movement that exists in some degree of tension with the dominant religious or cultural inclination of a society.
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Nov 10, 2022 · Cults have mystified and even terrified outsiders for decades upon decades. These shadowy and isolated organizations have left a long string of crimes in their wake. Learn more about what a cult is and how to spot one.
- Overview
- How to Recognize a Cult
- Why People Join Cults
- Famous Examples of Cults
- Takeaway
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A cult is an organized group whose purpose is to dominate cult members through psychological manipulation and pressure strategies. Cults are usually headed by a powerful leader who isolates members from the rest of society.
Some individuals who join cults remain lifelong members. Others break free and share how it felt to be brainwashed by a charismatic leader. But there are also some individuals who leave a cult and report that their experience was positive.
Studying cults is difficult for a few different reasons. It’s nearly impossible to study active cult members due to their unwillingness to let others into their closed societies. Quite often, they are suspicious of outsiders.
Sometimes individuals disagree about whether a group, such as a certain religious group, is actually a cult. Even researchers sometimes can’t agree on what constitutes a cult.
Most people can agree that cults have a leader. And the leader (or group of people who serve as leaders) is responsible for the rules that guide the members.
According to the Cult Education Institute, there are specific warning signs to look out for when considering whether a group might be a cult. Cults are characterized by:
1.Absolute authoritarianism without accountability
2.Zero tolerance for criticism or questions
3.Lack of meaningful financial disclosure regarding budget
They Don't Know They're Joining a Cult
Most individuals don’t recognize the group they’re joining is considered a cult. Individuals who are attracted to groups that are considered cults may have certain vulnerabilities that make them more likely to join, such as anxiety or substance abuse problems.
They Have Unresolved Insecurities
Another study found that many cult members experience attachment insecurity prior to joining a cult. Their insecurities may drive them toward a group that promises acceptance. Once they join a group, they’re usually distanced from outside influences. After people are separated from the outside world, leaving the group becomes difficult. They often grow dependent on being in the group and develop suspicions of anyone outside the group. This is why some people suspect that cult members are “brainwashed.” And there is some science behind this idea, as members are often told they’re being persecuted by people outside the group. Coping With an Insecure Attachment Style
They Are Manipulated Into Joining
The other major theory about why individuals remain in cults is mostly sociological. Cult leaders often promise to reward members in some way. They may tell them they’re going to move up the ranks within the cult or they may convince them that something really good is going to happen to their special group. Some people believe those involved are more like “victims” rather than “members,” since they are often subjected to psychological manipulation tactics that lure them into making unhealthy decisions—including suicide in some cases. Getting out of a cult can be quite difficult. Some members don't have contact with the outside world, so it can be nearly impossible to get help. Others don't have financial resources to find a new place to go.
Why people become cult leaders is also not well understood. Some experts suggest that most cult leaders tend to be psychopaths. They are often charismatic and use psychological tactics to gain power, social control, and allegiance from their followers.
There have been many cults that have made the news—quite often for their tragic endings.
If you grew up in a cult or you recently got out of one, you may want to talk to a mental health professional about the complex feelings you may have. Whether you were exposed to traumatic events or you are confused about your identity, there are many reasons why talking to someone might help you.
If you think a friend or family member may be involved with a cult, that can be really scary too. Reach out for professional help to get some guidance on what you can do or how you can cope with your emotions. It's going to take time, understanding, and a lot of patience to help extricate your loved one if they are in a dangerous situation.
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1.Rousselet M, Duretete O, Hardouin J, Grall-Bronnec M. Cult membership: What factors contribute to joining or leaving?. Psychiatry Res. 2017;257:27-33. doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2017.07.018
2.Cult Education Institute. Warning signs.
Jul 17, 2018 · Cult movement. A cult movement is one which does not simply provide one service, but looks to fulfil all the spiritual needs of their customers. This relationship then becomes more like a traditional church, denomination or sect, then with the clients being more like members of a congregation.
Cult is a lay term for a group perceived as requiring unwavering devotion to a set of beliefs and practices which are considered deviant outside the norms of society. Such groups are typically perceived as being led by a charismatic leader who tightly controls its members.
Sep 26, 2023 · The term "cult" conjures vivid images in our minds, ranging from charismatic leaders and secretive rituals to tragic tales of individuals who have fallen under their leader’s spell. The phenomenon of cults has long captivated our imaginations, sparking both curiosity and concern.
Jun 5, 2021 · What is a cult? How do they work? What are the lasting serious after-effects of being involved with one? Read on to learn how to protect yourself and family/friends from harm.
