#thetruth

Cults are often thought of as organized groups that exert influence and control over members in extreme ways (American Psychological Association, n.d.). However, cult-like behaviors can also manifest on a smaller scale within family units. While most families share close bonds and form identities together, some families exhibit characteristics that can be considered cult-like.

A cult-like family typically has one or more leaders who exert excessive control over family members, often the children (Langone, 2018). The leaders may isolate family members from outside influences that challenge their authority. They may discourage or forbid contact with extended family, friends, or other social groups (American Psychological Association, n.d.). The leaders require complete obedience and loyalty from family members, even if that means violating one's own values, identity, or well-being.

Cult-like families often involve thought reform through indoctrination and manipulation (Langone, 2018). Children are taught that the family leader or leaders are infallible and can do no wrong, even when evidence suggests otherwise. Children are taught that the family unit and loyalty to it is the most important thing, surpassing all other values. They are taught that anyone outside the family is untrustworthy or a threat.

The consequences of growing up in a cult-like family can be significant. Children tend to develop an unhealthy dependence on the family unit, forming an identity based on compliance and obedience (American Psychological Association, n.d.). They struggle to think independently and form healthy relationships outside the family. They may experience psychological and emotional damage due to the manipulation, control and isolation.

In extreme cases, cult-like families involve physical and sexual abuse as a means of control (Langone, 2018). However, the psychological damage can be just as severe even in families that do not involve physical abuse. Any family structure that involves excessive control, isolation and indoctrination poses risks to the mental health and well-being of its members.

In conclusion, while cults are typically thought of as organized groups, the same cult-like dynamics of control, isolation and indoctrination can manifest on a smaller scale within families. The consequences for children growing up in such environments make a compelling case that some families can indeed function as cults. With awareness, education and intervention, cult-like behaviors within families can be identified and addressed to help prevent psychological harm.

References:

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). What are cults? Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/cults

From The Lord, Our God and Savior ✉️

Section 5 of 5: "ONE WAY, ONE TRUTH, ONE LIFE" (From: Churches of Men, Hear The Word of The Lord)

“...Therefore, come out from among them and prepare to meet your God!...

Bow down and be purged and no more stand defiant; Seek no longer to uphold your own way, but come to Me naked; Kneel before your Redeemer and bear your hearts before Me!...

Beloved ones, receive of The Pure Water and drink deeply, Yea, immerse yourselves and be cleansed, set free!

For The Lord your God has a Holy One; He is The Head of the body, The True Sanctuary, The Only Life Without End! Say no more there is another way into eternal life, nor say those who reject His life live also, though it be in torment. For there is but ONE WAY, ONE TRUTH and ONE LIFE... Behold, He is a strong tower, a fortified city in the day of battle, an all-encompassing fire; The Mighty and Strong One whose rod is made of iron, The Law-Giver; The Source of Life by which all things consist,[8] your Carpenter and Redeemer, The Salvation of God! My people, wait upon The Lord with meekness and fear, with unwavering trust, wait for Him! For He is The Fountain of Living Waters for all who thirst, a fruitful vine for the hungry, a wealth of riches for all those who come to Me empty.

Therefore, beloved, give Him glory! Lift up your voices with everlasting praise! Bring thanksgiving to the altar, And offer up your hearts before Him!...

Shout His name to the heavens, For He is The Lord your Righteousness!...

YAHUSHUA HAMASHIACH!...

IMMANU EL!” [8]↑ Colossians 1:16-17

▶️ ALL SECTIONS Video Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRhENOVppJo&list=PLE8FlkxQPQkP4Ljrix_obl1uYSx1VNyqE&index=25