General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsTrump, Cult and Family Members.
I've been reading a little bit about cults, who is attracted to them and how to help loved ones leave them.
One interesting thing I've found is that cults impose a "pseudo-personality"
Family members that were previously low-information Reagan conservatives with all of Reagan's smiling, rosy cheeked bigotry have turned into something quite different. They are socially-avoidant, addicted to television and letting their health run down. They are openly hateful when previously they had been mostly just insular. "They aren't the same person anymore."
The advice that I keep running into is
1. Don't confront the cult member openly about the cult. They will double down into their chants, doctrine and slogans.
2. Let them know that you love them no matter what. "You will always be my xxxx, and I will always love you.
3. Ask open ended questions that will stimulate critical thinking. "What do you see yourself doing in five years?" "What are your plans for retirement?"
4. Visit the cult member as often as is possible
The cult member should treat you with courtesy too. If you are not treated respectfully feel free to say, "You know I am doing the best I can to understand you and be respectful, I would appreciate it if you would please treat me with the same consideration." And if during a visit you feel pressured or confronted say, "I really don't want to discuss anything that might lead to a disagreement--please let's try to make this a nice visit." And again it's almost always appropriate to say; "I love you." And/or "It's really good to see you."
5. When they express doubts or signs of leaving:
It is vitally important to express your unconditional love. Never say, "I told you so" or act in a punitive way or guilt-inducing manner.
6. They joined a cult because they were in search of identity and community and some stability. When they leave they will need you, if you can still be there for them.
Although Trumps followers are showing all the traits of cult members; except for being a psychopath Trump isn't much good as a cult leader. He's pretty weak tea. The GOP still has its radio and FOX and Facebook waiting for their next guy.
If we can heal his followers - we will be in a much better position in 2020.
The followers are looking for a true leader.
salin
(48,955 posts)Trump is just the current figure head.
I agree with all else that you write. I have been reading a lot about the processes of mind-control (especially through the prism of Scientology) for the past 3-4 years. The mechanisms - esp when amplified through other in-bubble sources such as talk radio, internet forums - and even more so when also projected/reinforced/infused with "godliness" by blending far right Christianity with GOP politics (this is not new under Trump - it was in strong force under W as well) seem to work in similar ways.
violetpastille
(1,483 posts)FOX, Facebook, and hate radio and those e-mails that they promulgate. Absolutely.
I am thankful that Trump is such a personal mess and isn't taking full advantage of his equipment.
It's bizarre that I am thankful that the President is a total physical and emotional mess. And I'm not that thankful.
Strange times.