Common Myths and Misconceptions About Cults and Cultic Groups

A model introductory talk developed by ICSA's NYC Educational Outreach Committee. For permission to reprint, contact mail@icsahome.com – ‪1-786-509-9746 (icsahome.com).

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Cults and Cultic Groups

Myth/Misconception: People join cults.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: Only people with psychological problems “join” cults.

Reality:

Myth/Misconeption: You know a cult when you see one.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: Cult leaders know they deceive.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: Anyone who really wants to leave, can.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: No one can leave without help.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: All cults have secret ceremonies/rituals/practices.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: Only stupid people or (smart but) crazy people “join” cults.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: Once you leave a cultic movement, you can/should just move on with your life—don’t look back.

Reality:

Myth/Misconception: I would never join a cult!

Reality:

People who become involved in cultic groups are not so different from us, and the groups they become involved in don’t necessarily advertise their cultic dimension in ways we can recognize.

[1] Martin, P. R., Langone, M.D., Dole, A.A., & Wiltrout, J. (1992). Post-Cult Symptoms As Measured by the MCMI. Cultic Studies Journal, 9(2), 219–250. See also Freedman, D. X. (1986). Psychiatric Epidemiology Counts. Archives of General Psychiatry, 41, 931–933.