Coercive Control in Cults and Families

Coercive control manifests in various forms and settings, with striking similarities between its dynamics within cults and families. While cults often evoke images of secretive organisations with charismatic leaders, families can operate as miniature versions of such groups, exerting control over individuals through manipulation and psychological tactics. Understanding these parallels sheds light on the complexities of power dynamics within familial relationships and the detrimental effects they can have on individuals.

 

Firstly, both cult leaders and abusive family members employ manipulation techniques to maintain control over members. In cults and families, perpetrators utilise persuasive tactics, such as love bombing and fear-mongering, to suppress dissent. Similarly, both use manipulation tactics which may involve guilt-tripping, gaslighting, or emotional blackmail to enforce compliance and obedience. Whether in a cult or a family, manipulation serves as a means to exert influence and maintain authority over individuals.

 

Furthermore, both cults and families exhibit patterns of isolation and dependency, fostering an environment where individuals become increasingly reliant on the group or family unit. In cults, this isolation often involves cutting off ties with outsiders and severing connections with friends and family who may challenge the group's beliefs. Similarly, within families, isolation can occur through the imposition of strict rules or boundaries that restrict social interactions and autonomy. This sense of isolation creates a dependency on the group or family for validation and support, further reinforcing the power dynamics at play.

 

Coercive control in both cults and families is characterised by the suppression of individual autonomy and agency. In cults, followers are often expected to unquestioningly adhere to the leader's dictates and relinquish their own beliefs and desires in favour of the group's agenda. Similarly, within families, individuals may face pressure to conform to familial expectations and norms, sacrificing their own autonomy in the process. This suppression of individuality serves to maintain the hierarchical structure of the group or family unit, with those in positions of power exerting control over those beneath them.

 

In conclusion, coercive control in cults and families shares many similarities, highlighting the pervasive nature of manipulation and power dynamics within interpersonal relationships. Recognising these parallels sheds light on the pervasive nature of coercive control within interpersonal relationships and underscores the importance of fostering healthier dynamics built on mutual respect and autonomy.

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References

Hassan, S. (2015). Combating Cult Mind Control: The #1 Best-selling Guide to Protection, Rescue, and Recovery from Destructive Cults.

 

Stark, R., & Bainbridge, W. S. (1985). The Future of Religion: Secularization, Revival and Cult Formation. University of California Press.

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Lalich, J., & Tobias, M. (2006). Take Back Your Life: Recovering from Cults and Abusive Relationships. Bay Tree Publishing.

 

Stark, E. (2007). Coercive Control: How Men Entrap Women in Personal Life. Oxford University Press.

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Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking. 

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Lifton, R. J. (1989). Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism: A Study of Brainwashing in China. University of North Carolina Press.