Red Flags of a Cult

I’ve compiled this list of cultic behavior traits and characteristics to raise awareness of the dynamics of cults. It is important to note that not all of these traits have to be present for a group or organization to be considered a cult and that these traits can often be used in subtle ways, which can be challenging to detect. This list is not exhaustive and should not be used as a definitive guide but as a tool to help people identify potential red flags of an unhealthy or destructive group. 

 

• • The group’s teachings or leader are considered to be the ultimate or only way

• • The group claims to have the best and only solution to life’s problems

• • The leader is considered to have special status or abilities, such as being enlightened or chosen to lead a mission to save the world

• • The leader is idolized and put on a pedestal, and members devote themselves to them

• • The leader and members feel a sense of superiority, thinking and feeling that they know better than others/outsiders

• • Members start distancing themselves from friends and family, spending most of their time with the group and not relating to others outside of the group

• • They talk about fear of natural disasters, impending doom, negative entities/spirits or invoke fear of the government/systems/outsiders

• • Members put a lot of energy, time, and effort into helping the group or leader advance (sometimes for free) while neglecting other aspects of their life

• • There isn’t a sense of openness to doubt or question the leader or group, and critical thinking is discouraged

• • The group uses their own language or special phrases that only members understand

• • They focus on bringing new people into the group (recruiting) or on making money

• • The group takes credit for members’ successes but blames the person for their failures

• • They lack taking practical steps forwards toward their goal or mission

• • They use techniques (such as meditation, thought-stopping, prayer, breathwork, chanting, or other practices) to suppress people’s thoughts or emotions

• • There is group conformity, and individuality is not encouraged

• • The leader is not held accountable for their actions, words, or behaviors and can be seen as above the law

• • They are told not to read any criticism or talk to dissenting or ex-members

• • People are dependent on the leader for their financial, emotional, and mental well-being, making it hard to leave the group

• • The teachings or practices are not in line with mainstream society or are considered controversial or unorthodox

• • The teachings, practices, or actions of the group/leader are often secretive and not open to outsiders

• • The teachings or practices are often based on a misinterpretation or reinterpretation of existing religious or spiritual beliefs

• • The teachings or practices often involve a disregard for personal boundaries or consent

• • They use a system of rewards and punishments to coerce the members

• • They can use coerced confessions or “distortion readings” to humiliate and cut down members’ self-esteem

• • The group or leader uses mind-control techniques, such as hypnosis, sleep deprivation, or isolation, to control and manipulate members

• • They may limit access to outside information or resources or get them to think that outside information or resources are not reliable or trustworthy

• • They may create a system that encourages members to monitor or report on each other’s behaviors that are not aligned with the group

• • They may encourage either celibacy or having sexual relations with the leader or other members

• • The group or leader uses fear, guilt, or shame to control and manipulate members

It’s important to remember that the presence of one or several of these characteristics does not necessarily mean that a group or organization is a cult. However, if any of these red flags are present or something feels off, it is important to trust your instincts and continue educating yourself on cults and coercive control. You may want to consider distancing yourself from the group and seek support from a professional educated on cults. By understanding the dynamics of manipulation and coercion, you can better detect and prevent emotional and psychological abuse.

Above all, make sure you trust your inner instincts when something feels off. You might not have the words to describe or pinpoint it, yet it’s important to trust yourself. If you feel something is off or if any of these red flags are present, continue to inquire, question and educate yourself on cults and coercive control and seek support if needed.

For more information, you can also download my free Cult Awareness & Recovery Guide.