The Three Stages

  • 1.Unfreezing
  • a.Disorientation / confusion
  • b.Sensory deprivation and/or sensory overload
  • c.Physiological manipulation

  • 1.Sleep deprivation
  • 2.Privacy deprivation
  • 3.Change of diet
  • d.Hypnosis

  • 1.Age regression
  • 2.Visualizations
  • 3.Story-telling and metaphors
  • 4.Linguistic double binds, use of suggestion
  • 5.Meditation, chanting, praying, singing
  • e.Get person to question self identity
  • f.Redefine individual's past (implant false memories, forget positive memories of the past)
  • 2. Changing
  • a.Creation and imposition of new "identity"done step by step

  • 1.Formally within indoctrination sessions
  • 2.Informally by members, tapes, books, etc.
  • b.Use of Behavior Modification techniques

  • 1.Rewards and punishments
  • 2.Use of thought-stopping techniques
  • 3.Control of environment
  • c.Mystical manipulation
  • d.Use of hypnosis and other mind-altering techniques

  • 1.Repetition, monotony, rhythm
  • 2.Excessive chanting, praying, decreeing, visualizations
  • e.Use of confession and testimonials

  • 3.Refreezing
  • a.New identity reinforced, old identity surrendered

  • 1.Separate from the past; decrease contact or cut off friends and family
  • < donate and possessions meaningful up />
  • 3.Start doing cult activities: recruit, fundraise, move in with members
  • b.New name, new clothing, new hairstyle, new language, new "family"
  • c.Pairing up with new role models, buddy system
  • d.Indoctrination continues: Workshops, retreats, seminars, individual studies, group activities

    Remember, cult mind control does not erase the person's old identity, but rather creates a new one to suppress the old identity (John-John and John-cult).