Drinking the Kool Aid: Parallels between Cult Membership and Substance Use Disorders (Concurrent Workshops D)-Drinking the Kool Aid: Parallels between Cult Membership and Substance Use Disorders

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video presentation, Dr. Nidal Mukaddam, along with Dr. Onisha Konana and Dr. Nancy Shinoy, discuss the parallels between cult membership and substance use disorder. They explore the history, definition, and characteristics of cults, including patterns of attachment and complex psychopathology in former cult members. The presenters also delve into the strategies used by cult leaders for psychological abuse and highlight the similarities between risk factors for joining cults and developing substance use disorders.<br /><br />They discuss the neurocircuitry involved in natural highs, substance-induced highs, addiction, and cult membership. The video includes case studies, notably NXIVM and the People's Temple, showcasing the manipulative tactics used by cult leaders to retain members. These tactics range from sleep deprivation and control over personal relationships to sexual abuse and coercion.<br /><br />The presenters emphasize the importance of assessing psychiatric comorbidities and providing psychotherapy and family therapy for cult survivors. They also discuss therapeutic interventions for individuals exiting cults, noting the overlap between cult and addiction psychiatry.<br /><br />The video concludes by underlining the need for further research and therapeutic approaches for cult survivors. Overall, the presentation provides valuable insights into the psychological mechanisms of cult membership and substance use disorders, offering potential avenues for intervention and support for those affected.

Keywords

cult membership

substance use disorder

parallels

attachment patterns

complex psychopathology

cult characteristics

psychological abuse

risk factors

neurocircuitry

natural highs

addiction

manipulative tactics

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