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All In The Mind

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

  • The psychological tricks that make cults so dangerous

The psychological tricks that make cults so dangerous

Sunday 2nd October 2022

Discover the psychological tricks behind cults and how to escape their grip in this episode of 'All In The Mind'.
30 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Raw
Engaging
Educational

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All In The Mind
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ABC Radio
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Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
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Cults and the Mind: Unraveling the Psychological Traps

I think what you don't understand is that often they're at a vulnerable point in their life.
Ever wondered how seemingly ordinary people get caught up in cults? This episode of 'All In The Mind' dives into the fascinating yet chilling world of cult psychology. Host Lynne Malcolm is joined by Tora Klevyer, a former cult member turned counselor, and Sarah Steele, author of 'Do As I Say: How Cults Control, Why We Join Them, and What They Teach Us About Bullying, Abuse, and Coercion'. Together, they dissect the psychological tricks that make cults so dangerously captivating.
Klevyer and Steele emphasize that anyone can fall prey to a cult, with vulnerability being a significant factor. They draw intriguing parallels between cults and multi-level marketing companies, highlighting how both exploit human psychology. The episode also explores the profound impact cult involvement can have on individuals and their families. The process of leaving a cult is often fraught with guilt and a need for extensive counseling, as Klevyer shares from personal experience.
Education and awareness are underscored as crucial tools in preventing cult involvement. By recognizing our own vulnerabilities and understanding the signs of manipulation, we can better protect ourselves and others from falling into these psychological traps. Tune in for a compelling discussion that sheds light on the dark allure of cults and offers hope for those seeking to break free.