Use of cult in the teaching of psychology of religion and spirituality.

Abstract

The word cult has many conflicting definitions across scholarly fields, yet instructors commonly use it in the teaching of psychology. Distinctions between cults and other groups are differences of degree and often rest on a group's size, the unusualness of its beliefs, the outcomes of its actions, and the perceived role of its leader. Use of cult by teachers of psychology suggests that cults are categorically distinct from other groups and brings negative connotations to cults, their members, and former members. Teachers of psychology should explicitly address these issues and avoid the term cult. Additionally, teachers, researchers, and practitioners of psychology should evaluate the behavior of groups, the degree of social influence, the presence of deception, and potential abuse.

Religion, spirituality, and mental health.

“…He pointed to these "strong advantages" of fundamentalism: "an unambiguous sense of right and wrong, clear rules for living, closeness with like-minded believers, a distinctive identity, and, most important, the faith that their lives are sanctioned and supported by God" (p. 172). Galanter (1996) likewise documented adaptive aspects of cult (or "new religious movement"; Woody, 2009 ) membership. Avoiding stereotypes and minimizing biaswhether pro-or antireligious-is an ethical obligation for psychologists.…”

Cult conversion from the perspective of families: Implications for prevention and psychological intervention.

“…Groups of psychological abuse (GPA), popularly known as “cults” (Langone & Chambers, 1991), constitute a social problem that is difficult to operationalize and demonstrate in scientific terms (Gray et al, 2018; Rodríguez-Carballeira et al, 2015; Woody, 2009). But thanks to a growing body of research into the phenomenon, it is possible to affirm that cults are a threat to public health.…”