Some cults seek people while others attract them. Not all cults are manipulative. A cult is just a group of people who share a belief that is unpopular or deemed taboo by society. Some things that are popular in one age were condemned and illegal in another age. Manipulative cults however are dangerous because they control their members and exploit them for money, sex or a particular agenda. They demonize all other perspectives so their followers only accept them. Sometimes the slightest deviation from what is normal within the cult is demonized.
Types Of People Attracted To and Targeted By Manipulative Cults
The Young And Inexperienced
Young people who lack parental guidance and have access to the interent are perfect for predators. The younger and more vulnerable the target is the stronger hold they have on them.
The Young And Rebellious
Sometimes young people want to rebel and protest by joining a cause or following a movement that is different from the norm. Often when they find it they don’t deeply analyze it they just hop on for the ride. In many cases they outgrow the movement and come to the realization that different does not always mean better.
For some young people it is just a phase. Others stay until they get old often giving up a better life and missing many opportunities. They then turn around and try to recruit new members.
The Lonely
When people are lonely and want to belong they gladly give up things like their perspective and money in return for community companionship. I know people who adopt the religion of anyone they go into a relationship with. You also might think these people are uneducated or lacking resources but that is not the case. There are many wealthy and educated people with a strong need to belong. I’ve spoken to one woman who has a PhD that said adopting the religious views of anyone she’s in a relationship with is a small price to pay for love. The need to belong is strong in humans and it doesn’t matter how educated or intelligent a person is, they can still be manipulated by this need.
The Old And Lonely
Sometimes people who have passed a certain age and don’t have much friends and are single feel like they have few options. They gladly accept any opportunity that comes their way to socialize.
The Bitter And Lonely
People who just want to lash out on society because someone hurt them. They latch on to any movement that can help them to condemn or make them feel separate.
Manipulators
Not everyone who is drawn into a manipulative cult is being exploited. Manipulators attract manipulators. Some people join not because they’re lonely or want to belong but to participate in manipulating and exploiting. Unlike the others who believe the lies, these members know it is a scam from the start.
Breaking Free
No matter your situation giving up your truth to be a mindless drone is not worth it. It is better to learn to love your own company. One of the easiest and most effective ways to love your own company is to do a Spiritual Practice like yoga or meditation. These practices foster inner peace and bring a calmness. Do not judge yourself for the mistakes you’ve made in the past. Instead learn from them so you may make wiser choices in the future. Reflect on the past and learn from it then forgive everyone who you think has done you wrong.
Instead of joining a cult find something you love to do and join a group based around that activity. Network with the members and attract people with whom you share genuine commonalities.
francisashis
Very true and manipulative cults have almost become a fashion for some youngsters.
Jaja Wallace
Indeed, and social media has escalated this. I’ll be doing a follow up to this article.
francisashis
That’s better.👍
Jaja Wallace
Thank you, I appreciate your support. 🙏🏿
‘That Spiritual Plant Guy’
LOL – in terms of ‘manipulativeness’, talking about the Human Energy Field – it is sensed with High Sense Perception as mostly Insalubrious 3A Chakra Cord Thrusting Outwards. Very uncomfortable to say the least! LOL!!
Jaja Wallace
Peace and love to you.
‘That Spiritual Plant Guy’
THANKS A BUNCH.
The Purging Lutheran
Well done.
Jaja Wallace
Thank you.
allysnotebook
Thanks for this excellent post, I totally hear what you are saying. Fortunately I have the freedom to be myself and are not manipulated by anyone or any cult 🙂.
Jaja Wallace
Very true, one of the most beautiful things in life is being yourself. When we are true to ourselves we create more meaningful relationships. 🙏🏾
ceridwensilverhart
Loneliness definitely seems to be a big motivator among the targeted demographics. It’s sad that there are people who take advantage of this vulnerable state.
Jaja Wallace
I agree, loneliness can make people join groups or enter relationships without thinking if it is best for them.
111
they’re all over social media
Priscilla Bettis
I know two people in a cult. It’s so frustrating.
Jaja Wallace
I can imagine how frustrating that must be.
MichaelStephenWills
Thanks for the follow, Jaja
Jaja Wallace
Peace and blessings
The Purging Lutheran
What is your interest in this/these topics re cults, etc? Just curious. Thanks.
Jaja Wallace
In a world of cultural conditioning I always find it interesting when a group of people deviate from the norm.
There are many lessons to learn from Cults. One is that no matter how unpopular your views are if you truly believe in something and stick to it you will get support. It also shows us how a small group of people can survive and even thrive by banding together and supporting each other when society is against them.
The Purging Lutheran
Thank you. I guess appreciate it.
Jaja Wallace
Thank you as well, I appreciate the question.
CarolCooks2
An interesting post…. Personally I have never been influenced by trends or anything really.. But can see how some people may be influenced or drawn to cults.. Thank you for the follow Jaja 😊
Jaja Wallace
That’s amazing, I wouldn’t say I’ve never been influenced but I do my best to think for myself.
CarolCooks2
Thats good to hear.
Jaja Wallace
🙏🏾 Blessings
Folashade Babalola
On the subject matter of cults as you mentioned in your previous article. They tend to be very secretive. There is a likelihood that the overseer of the cult is alot wealthier than other members of the group. There is limited accountability, meaning that decisions are made without the consent of others. Money is often used to the benefit of the overseer and members rarely challenge. When they do they are seen as rebellious and asked to leave. Kindness exists superficially but the overall interest is not in its members but the overseer.
The leaders are often very charismatic. They want you to be at most meetings. Money plays a huge part. Their actions are manipulative. You are likely to be funding someone’s lavish lifestyle. We can all fall victim. Apologies for this very long comment.
Jaja Wallace
I wholeheartedly agree. Cults have been around for so long and they’ve adapted to the digital age. There are so many people on social media manipulating and dividing the masses for their personal gain. It is good to have an awareness of this and be mindful.
I appreciate your comment,
Morgan ackerly
Love this
Jaja Wallace
Thanks Morgan.