Delanie Fischer chats with counseling psychologist and executive director of the International Cultic Studies Association, Michael D. Langone, about high-control groups and cultic dynamics. They explore key characteristics of cults (they’re more common than we think!), what can prompt people to question their involvement, recovery and healing from spiritual and psychological abuse, and how to lead groups responsibly and ethically.

Episode Highlights:

3 Red Flags to Watch For When Joining Any Group
What if Not Everyone Agrees Something's a Cult?
Is All Religion a Cult? Why or Why Not?
Creating Real Harmony: Unity vs. Uniformity
Can a Family Dynamic be Considered a Cult?
2 Powerful Resources for Recovery
Michael’s Diagram for Evaluating Groups
How Does Someone Realize They're in a Cult?
Who is Most Likely to Become a Cult Leader?
What Most Cults Have in Common in the U.S.

Michael's book, Recovery from Cults: Help for Victims of Psychological and Spiritual Abuse: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/recovery-from-cults-michael-d-langone/1100879783

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Inside Cult Tactics and High-Control Groups: Manipulation, Deception & Coercion with Michael D. Langone