If your knowledge of cults comes primarily from documentaries or the internet rather than direct experience, it’s easy to think about cults as the stuff of movies. But religious cults and other types of cults are more common than you might think.
Cult groups exist in many shapes and sizes and permeate communities across the U.S. and around the world.
Finding out that a family member joined a cult can be shocking, confusing, and concerning. But how you go about approaching them and speaking to them about the cult, and possibly convincing them to leave it, is very important. Going about it wrong can have a negative effect. It can cause a rift between you and your family member, and perhaps even drive them to become more committed to their new cult.
If you’re concerned about a family member who may be involved in cultic groups, keep reading. We’re bringing you a few tips for communicating with them about your concerns.
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Educate Yourself on Cultic Groups First
Before reaching out to your family member, it’s important to educate yourself about the group, and about the cult mindset in general.
Most cults, regardless of their focus, have similar tactics for attracting and retaining members. For instance, studies show that those who join cults often had members of that cult in their social or family group first. After joining, members find themselves in a socially precarious position, which helps keep them attached to the cult.
Ask friends or family members familiar with the cult about its beliefs, and use the internet to find information from former members. Understanding why your family member joined and the beliefs they are now surrounded by can help you better put yourself in their shoes ahead of your conversation.
Practice Empathy and Understanding
When you approach your family member to speak about the cult, or possibly about escaping from a cult, try to be understanding and empathetic. The last thing you want to do is alienate them.
Even if you don’t agree with their beliefs, try to see things from their point of view. Present your concerns in a calm and level-headed manner, and use your research to back up your points.
Consider Family Counseling
Whether you’ve already had an initial conversation with your family member or not, family counseling can be a safe and effective way to educate your at-risk family member and help them to better understand the situation that they are in.
Professional counselors are equipped with extensive knowledge of the tactics used by cult groups, as well as the mindsets of those who join such groups. They’ll be better able to connect with your family member in a non-aggressive way.
If you have already reached out to your family member without success, counseling may be your best chance to getting through to them and offering help — and, in helping them to realize that they need help, to begin with.
For family counseling services in Perth, Australia, visit https://energeticsinstitute.com.au/family-therapy-perth/.
Leave a Lifeline Open
Cultic groups can put individuals in compromising and even dangerous situations. But helping a family member escape takes time, patience, and understanding.
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