The Psychology of Cults with Dr Elizabeth Mullan

When we hear the word ‘cult’, we might think about notorious religious groups such as Heaven’s Gate, Children of God, and Scientologists. But cults and other high control groups are everywhere, and they definitely are not always religious in character, with some luring people in under the false pretence of wellness and personal growth.

It’s estimated there are around 2,000 cults in operation in the UK today, and 10,000 in the United States. Research from The Family Survival Trust in 2022 called this phenomenon a “hidden epidemic” in the UK, estimating thousands of adults and children are being deceived into joining cult groups. This talk examines the psychology of cults: what draws people to join cults, why they might stay, and what cult leaders and leadership members get out of controlling people.