What is a cult?

The only sure way to avoid being deceived by a cult.

Some HPM groups are secretive or manipulative, using humiliation and mind manipulation to control adherents.  They use time-tested methods to bind participants together and to manipulate thinking--brainwashing techniques.  An effort may be made to make everything seem spontaneous, when, in fact, everything is carefully orchestrated for maximum control and impact.  Much of the mind conditioning is purely performed by techniques such as isolation, secrecy, bonding through confrontation and confession, shaming or humiliation before others, disparaging detractors, forbidding or discouraging questioning or criticism, discouraging thinking for one’s self, verbal abuse, and relaxation/hypnotic techniques such as guided visualizations. It is not uncommon to visualize or imagine one or more invisible "spirit guides" or great personages living or dead who are here to "help" adherents.

Some characteristics of HPM:

• refusal to disclose the contents of the seminars beforehand
• requiring attendees to sign a "hold harmless" agreement
• using language that implies a self-transformation
• the use of sales techniques to get you to participate
• portrayal of any who criticize as being ignorant, evil, or even influenced by Satan
• discouragement of any evaluation of the teachings and methods
• discouragement or denigration of criticism
• the promise of a total redesign of your view, of your self, or of your reality
• elitist attitude or past participants
• past participants as recruiters (Past participants are often pressured to recruit new participants)

Terms: Self actualization, self awareness, self talk, self fulfillment

Names, writings, and Institutions: Esalen Institute, Michael Murphy, Dick Price, George Leonard, EST, the Church of Scientology, Stephen Covey, Lifespring, The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, Anthony Robbins, Awaken the Giant Within, Chopra Center, Deepak Chopra, Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, New Thought, Phineas Parkhurst Quimby, The Quimby Manuscripts