Cults Explained | How to identify a cult | What is a cult? What do cults do to control their members

You might have heard of the term “cult”, but what exactly is a cult and how can you identify one? In this short video we’ll dive into an explanation of cults covering key characteristics, Steven Hassan’s BITE model, examples, and some important considerations. If you find this video to be helpful, be sure to like, comment, share, and subscribe and consider supporting the channel by becoming a member. Join this channel to get access to perks:
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A cult is generally a group that revolves around a set of unusual or extreme beliefs and practices, often centered on a charismatic leader who demands total loyalty. In simple terms, cults are groups where a leader or core belief system exerts a strong influence over every aspect of its members’ lives. One useful framework for understanding how cults maintain such control is the BITE model, developed by cult expert Steven Hassan.

Sources:

Steven Hassan — BITE Model of Authoritarian Control
https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model/

Steven Hassan — Combating Cult Mind Control (book overview)
https://freedomofmind.com/combating-cult-mind-control/

American Psychological Association — Cult (definition)
https://dictionary.apa.org/cult

Merriam-Webster Dictionary — Cult Definition
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cult

Encyclopaedia Britannica — Cult
https://www.britannica.com/topic/cult

Encyclopaedia Britannica — New Religious Movement
https://www.britannica.com/topic/new-religious-movement

International Cultic Studies Association — Characteristics of Cultic Groups
https://articles.icsahome.com/articles/characteristics

Encyclopaedia Britannica — People’s Temple
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Peoples-Temple

Encyclopaedia Britannica — Heaven’s Gate
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Heavens-Gate-religious-group

Encyclopaedia Britannica — Manson Family
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Manson-family

Encyclopaedia Britannica — NXIVM
https://www.britannica.com/topic/NXIVM

FBI — Jonestown Mass Suicide Case Summary
https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/jonestown

#cult #cults #religion