Why do we get a buzz from being in large groups at festivals, jubilees and other public events? According to the social brain hypothesis, it’s because the human brain specifically evolved to support social interactions. Studies have shown that belonging to a group can lead to improved wellbeing and increased satisfaction with life.
Trigger warnings might prolong the aversive aspects of negative memories
A study published in Memory suggests that trigger warnings could actually be counterproductive and prolong effects of recalling a negative memory.
ICSA Annual Conference: Mainstream Media – What is their role and responsibility in educating the public about cults?
This talk explores the role of mainstream media in providing public education about the dangers and dynamics of cults. Very often we notice mainstream media focusing on exposing specific corruptions or injustices from cultic groups, or highlighting sensationalized anecdotal situations or personal stories from former cult members.
ICSA Annual Conference: Decolonizing the cult survivor
Worldwide Church of God, a Bible based doomsday cult
Master of the Cultiverse: Patrick Ryan on Transcendental Meditation
Patrick Ryan is a graduate of Maharishi International University. He has been a cult intervention specialist since 1984. He’s the co-founder of TM-EX, the organization of ex-members of Transcendental Meditation, established ICSA’s online resource (1995-2013), and has presented 50 programs about hypnosis, inner-experience, trance-induction techniques, communicating with cult members, conversion, cult intervention, exit counseling, intervention.
Transcendental Meditation, Cults and Exiting: Interview with Patrick Ryan from Cult 101
Patrick Ryan found himself deeply involved in Transcendental Meditation during the 1970s until he started to believe he was part of a harmful group. He is now a cult mediation specialist, otherwise known as exit counselling. He is also the head of TM-EX, an organization of ex-members of Transcendental Meditation and has worked extensively with The International Cultic Studies Association.
Creating Your #iGotOut Statement with Gerette Buglion
his class is for anyone who has been impacted by controlling groups—directly or indirectly—and wants to express it through the written word.