Interesting discussion re use of double binds to control people behind the Mormon curtain: http://forum.newordermormon.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=29936
In short it is giving someone two options which are in some way mutually exclusive such that success in one guarantees failure in the other and then attaching guilt. This way members continually chase their tails failing to meet all demands, feel guilt and hand over control to the person, concept or organisation.
Mormon examples:
- "No success will compensate for failure in the home" / Wear yourself out in service to your fellow man / Never say no to a calling.
- If you don't have a testimony it will come by bearing it / Do not lie or give false witness.
- Free will - moral agency / Be obedient without question
- Prophet will "never lead you astray " / Sometimes the prophet "speaks as a man"
- The "glory of God is intelligence" / Only study church approved material
- Have unshakeable faith / Avoid information that may weaken your testimony
- Do not get into debt / Pay 10% of income before all other obligations
- Do not gossip / Discuss the needs and problems of your assigned families to various committees
- Atonement is free for all people / confess sins to Priesthood leadership who will decide if atonement has worked and you are forgiven
There are lots more, have any JW examples?