Social Psychology of Cults

Catalog description

3 hours (3;0;0). The methods by which cults recruit, convert, retain, and behaviorally influence members will be analyzed in terms of social psychology principles; e.g., conformity, commitment, isolation, deindividuation, disaffiliation, obedience, thought reform, brainwashing, attachment theory, and network theory. Aspects such as cult leadership qualities and organizational systems/group processes will also be examined. The goal of the course is to understand psychological effects of cult membership, not to classify or qualify any specific cult as "good" or "bad." Course Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology. Course Typically Offered: Fall.