Problems Ex-Members and Families Face: An Overview

Lorna Goldberg, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

William Goldberg, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

Conference: Psychological Manipulation, Cultic Groups, and Other Alternative Movement, Madrid, Spain, July 14-16, 2005

This session will provide an overview of the kinds of problems former group members and families with involved loved ones confront.  The speakers will first discuss those aspects of cultic environments and personal vulnerability that place individuals, families, and groups at risk of causing conflict and concern.  The kinds of experiences cultic group members have and how those experiences influence their post-group problem picture will be explored, as will ways in which former members typically deal with post-group issues.  Lastly, the perspectives of families will be examined with a focus on how families can help current and former group members.  Special issues, such as children and divorce, will also be discussed.