Understanding the Dynamics: Trump Supporters and Cult-like Behavior

Cult expert explains the Trump cult
Doctor Steven Hassan, world-renowned cult expert and author of "The Cult of Trump: A Leading Cult Expert Explains How the President Uses Mind Control," joins David to discuss his understanding of the MAGA movement through a cult lens

Click here to order Steven Hassan's book, "The Cult of Trump: A Leading Cult Expert Explains How the President Uses Mind Control"

*As featured in the streaming documentary #UNTRUTH—now with a new foreword by George Conway and an afterword by the author*

A masterful and eye-opening examination of Trump and the coercive control tactics he uses to build a fanatical devotion in his supporters written by “an authority on breaking away from cults…an argument that…bears consideration as the next election cycle heats up” (Kirkus Reviews).

Since the 2016 election, Donald Trump’s behavior has become both more disturbing and yet increasingly familiar. He relies on phrases like, “fake news,” “build the wall,” and continues to spread the divisive mentality of us-vs.-them. He lies constantly, has no conscience, never admits when he is wrong, and projects all of his shortcomings on to others. He has become more authoritarian, more outrageous, and yet many of his followers remain blindly devoted. Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert and a major Trump supporter, calls him one of the most persuasive people living. His need to squash alternate information and his insistence of constant ego stroking are all characteristics of other famous leaders—cult leaders.

In The Cult of Trump, mind control and licensed mental health expert Steven Hassan draws parallels between our current president and people like Jim Jones, David Koresh, Ron Hubbard, and Sun Myung Moon, arguing that this presidency is in many ways like a destructive cult. He specifically details the ways in which people are influenced through an array of social psychology methods and how they become fiercely loyal and obedient. Hassan was a former “Moonie” himself, and he presents a “thoughtful and well-researched analysis of some of the most puzzling aspects of the current presidency, including the remarkable passivity of fellow Republicans [and] the gross pandering of many members of the press” (Thomas G. Gutheil, MD and professor of psychiatry, Harvard Medical School).

The Cult of Trump is an accessible and in-depth analysis of the president, showing that under the right circumstances, even sane, rational, well-adjusted people can be persuaded to believe the most outrageous ideas. “This book is a must for anyone who wants to understand the current political climate” (Judith Stevens-Long, PhD and author of Living Well, Dying Well).

In recent years, the political landscape has seen a significant shift, with the rise of fervent support for Donald Trump. While political loyalty is not new, the intensity and unwavering nature of some of his supporters have led many to draw parallels between political allegiance and cult-like behavior. Understanding these dynamics can shed light on how individuals become entrenched in such movements and, more importantly, how they can be encouraged to leave.

The Cult-like Characteristics

Cult behavior often manifests through a few key traits: charismatic leadership, an us-versus-them mentality, emotional manipulation, and the demand for absolute loyalty. Trump’s supporters exhibit similar characteristics. The former president’s charisma has galvanized a base that views him as a savior figure, someone who is fighting against a perceived establishment that threatens their values and way of life. This creates a strong in-group identity, where supporters feel a deep connection to one another, often viewing outsiders—especially critics—as enemies.

The emotional manipulation seen in cults can also be evident among Trump supporters. Rallies often create an electric atmosphere, tapping into feelings of hope, anger, and community. Such environments can foster a form of dependency on the group’s shared beliefs, making it challenging for individuals to critically evaluate their perspectives. Additionally, narratives that promote conspiracy theories and misinformation can further entrench these beliefs, isolating individuals from alternative viewpoints.

Leaving the Cult

Exiting a cult-like environment is a complex process, often fraught with emotional and psychological challenges. Here are some strategies that can facilitate this transition:

1. Build Relationships: Encouragement from loved ones can make a significant difference. Engaging with individuals who offer empathy and understanding rather than judgment creates a safe space for questioning beliefs. It’s essential to maintain open lines of communication, emphasizing that the goal is not to attack their views but to understand them.

2. Encourage Critical Thinking: Supporters can be gently nudged towards critical thinking by introducing alternative viewpoints and questioning the narratives they’ve internalized. This can be done through discussions, sharing articles, or even documentaries that present contrasting information. The key is to inspire curiosity rather than confrontation.

3. Identify Personal Values: Helping individuals reconnect with their core values can provide a foundation for questioning their current beliefs. Engaging in discussions about what matters most to them can highlight inconsistencies in their alignment with the cult-like ideology.

4. Seek Professional Help: For some, the psychological bonds formed in such environments can be deeply ingrained. Professional counseling or support groups can provide the necessary tools and frameworks for processing their experiences and navigating their emotions.

5. Create a Supportive Community: Fostering a community that encourages diverse beliefs and healthy discussions can help ease the transition. When individuals feel accepted in a new environment, they’re more likely to explore new ideas without the pressure of conforming to previous group dynamics.

Conclusion

While the comparison between Trump supporters and cult followers may seem contentious, recognizing these parallels can aid in understanding the strong emotional ties that bind individuals to such movements. By offering empathy, fostering critical thinking, and providing support, friends and family can play a crucial role in helping individuals reevaluate their beliefs and, ultimately, find a path toward a more open-minded perspective. Leaving a cult-like mentality is not just about abandoning a political stance; it’s about reclaiming personal agency and reconnecting with a broader view of the world.

Click here to read Lawmaker wounded at Jonestown massacre compares Trump to cult leader

Click here to read Congresswoman Jackie Speier, Jonestown Survivor: Trump Has “All the Trappings” of Being the Next Jim Jones
Featured in the new doc, 'Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown,' the Democratic politician warns: "I was in the House gallery when January 6 took place. I thought, 'Oh my God, I survived the jungles of Guyana, and I'm going to die in this tabernacle of democracy.'"

Click here to order Steven Hassan's book, "The Cult of Trump: A Leading Cult Expert Explains How the President Uses Mind Control"

Click here to read Understanding the Dynamics: Trump Supporters and Cult-like Behavior

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