About This Course
Inside the Mind: Understanding Cults and Their Influence is a thought-provoking four-week evening course held at ¶º±ÆÖ±²¥. Through a dynamic blend of psychological theory, historical analysis, and real-world case studies, participants will explore the inner workings of cults and the complex forces that draw people into them.
Each week delves into a new dimension of cult psychology and influence. You'll examine why individuals are drawn to high-control groups, how manipulation techniques, such as love bombing and isolation sustain loyalty, and the role of charismatic leadership in maintaining control. You'll also explore both historical and modern-day examples, from religious movements to online echo chambers, wellness cults, and political extremism.
The course concludes by focusing on escape, recovery, and prevention, equipping learners to recognise coercive control and support resilience in themselves and others.
Designed for those interested in psychology, sociology, criminology, or social justice, this course encourages critical thinking, reflective discussion, and real-world application. Whether you're exploring career pathways or personal curiosity, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the human need for belonging, and how it can be both uplifted and exploited.
Course dates and times
The time is the same for each of the dates, 6:00PM - 8:00PM
13th November
20th November
27th November
4 th December
Location
Lecture room 3, Main Arts Building, ¶º±ÆÖ±²¥, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DG
Learner Outcomes & Course benefits
By the end of this 4-week course, participants will be able to:
Psychological Insight
- Identify key psychological traits that make individuals susceptible to cult recruitment, including cognitive biases, emotional vulnerabilities, and identity needs.
- Explain mechanisms of influence and control, such as indoctrination, gaslighting, and groupthink, using real-world examples.
Critical Analysis
- Analyse historical and contemporary cults through case studies, evaluating their structure, leadership, and impact on members and society.
- Distinguish between high-control groups and mainstream belief systems, applying sociological and psychological frameworks.
Communication & Debate
- Engage in informed discussions about the ethical, legal, and social dimensions of cults, including freedom of belief vs. manipulation.
- Present reasoned arguments on controversial topics such as media portrayal, criminality, and the role of charisma in leadership.
Applied Understanding
- Recognise warning signs of coercive control and manipulation in various settings (e.g., online communities, wellness movements, political groups).
- Design awareness strategies to educate others about cult dynamics and promote psychological resilience.
Reflective & Personal Growth:
- Reflect on personal belief systems and susceptibility to influence, fostering greater self-awareness and critical thinking.
- Evaluate the role of social context, trauma, and isolation in shaping vulnerability to cults.
Ideal for Learners Who...
- Are curious about psychology, criminology, sociology, or contemporary social issues
- Want to explore the intersection of belief, identity, and control
- Are considering further study or careers in mental health, law enforcement, social work, or education
- Enjoy interactive learning, discussion, and real-world application
Course Content
What will you study on this course?
Week 1: The Psychology of Cult Attraction
Date: 13 November:
- What defines a cult?
- Psychological traits that make individuals vulnerable
- The role of identity, belonging, and belief
- Introduction to coercive persuasion and indoctrination
Week 2: Manipulation, Control & Retention
Date: 20 November:
- Techniques of manipulation: love bombing, isolation, fear
- Charismatic leadership and power dynamics
- Psychological dependency and cognitive dissonance
- The blurred line between devotion and control
Week 3: Cults in History and Contemporary Society
Date: 27 November:
- Historical cult movements and their societal impact
- Modern cult-like groups: wellness, politics, online communities
- Media portrayal and public fascination
- Cults as hidden criminal networks
Week 4: Breaking Free and Moving Forward
Date: 4 December:
- Exit strategies and recovery
- Support systems and deprogramming
- Legal and ethical challenges
- Cult prevention and awareness
Course Cost
there is no cost to this course.
Application
To register for this course click on the link below: