HARMFUL EFFECTS:

• Loss of free will
  

• Destroyed family relationships
  

• Involuntary slavery
  

• Neurotic, psychotic or suicidal tendencies
  

• Hallucinations, panic, dissociation, guilt, identity diffusion and paranoia
  

• Reduced capacity to form flexible and intimate human relationships
  

• Malnutrition and physical deterioration
  

• Reduced use of irony, abstractions and metaphors
  

• Financial suffering
  

CULTIC THINKING:

Cultic thinking is a way of conceptualizing reality and society by dividing them in two monolithic blocks (black/white, saved/damned, good/evil).  Within this framework there is no room for grey areas.  Individuals and movements with this kind of thinking automatically classify themselves in the category of the pure and the saved.

Subsequently, they look for scapegoats in order to explain problems experienced by them or by society.  Cultic thinking can lead to intolerance and extremism, and is particularly prevalent in times of personal, social or economic crisis.