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Old 03-03-2019, 08:37 AM   #1
Cal
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Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: USA
Posts: 4,333
Default Characteristics of Spiritually Abusive Groups

For your review.
  • Claims of special, unique status, of being uniquely chosen and commissioned.

  • Claims of special, unique knowledge, of possessing "hidden" knowledge.

  • Claims of special, unique experiences, which can be experienced nowhere else.

  • Claims of having God’s highest truth.

  • Special language.

  • Claims of having special apostles or prophets.

  • Excessive dependence on the special leader(s).

  • Expecting members to not deviate from any detail of teaching.

  • Expecting members to make the group their top priority.

  • Targeting young adults for membership.

  • A culture of intimidation and lording authority.

  • Excessive discipline, including shaming, quarantining and excommunication.

  • Member manipulation.

  • Legalism.

  • Perfectionism.

  • Persecution complex.

  • Exclusivity.

  • Denouncing all other groups.

  • Painful exit process.
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