... I've written a letter to a local paper. I hope it will be printed. It says nothing about JWs, but it should get the light bulbs to go off in their heads. I recommend everyone on the board write a similar letter. The way I see it, it can't hurt, it can only help. Here's how my letter reads:
"How to Identify a Cult"
The problem of cults is widespread these days, mainly because of a lack of education about the subject. This is dangerous because mind control groups can draw in members who are otherwise reasonable and intelligent people.
No one who is in a cult believes that they are in one. They can see the signs of a cult in other groups but not in their own. So what are these signs?
Former Moonie Steve Hassan identifies these using the "BITE" method: Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional control.
Behavior control often includes who a person is allowed to associate with and what clothes and hairstyles are acceptable. Individuality is discouraged in favor of "group think". Major time is committed to the group's activities.
Information control includes not allowing current members to talk to former members. Often information that originates outside the group is held with suspicion, since outsiders are considered to be outside of God's approval, and therefore, under Satan's influence.
Thought control includes not being allowed to question the decisions of the group's leaders or doctrines. No alternative belief systems are viewed as legitimate, good, or useful.
Emotional control involves using guilt and fear to motivate members. Greatest of all is the fear of leaving the group. Many irrational phobias are built around this, and persons cannot picture happiness or fulfillment outside the cult. This is often reinforced by families who shun former members. No reason given for leaving the group is viewed as legitimate. Those who do are looked at as having been "unspiritual" or "weak".
Hopefully no readers of the (newspaper's name here) ever fall prey to such groups. Remember the "BITE" method... and remember that there is hope out there for those who are trapped in such groups!