A Clinical and Forensic Guide to Cults and Persuasive Leadership

Cults and other forms of persuasive leadership have become increasingly topical for clinical professionals. However, little has been established on how to understand and approach them in a clinical and forensic context. Authored by experts in forensic psychiatry and psychology, this book reviews the theoretical, clinical, and forensic issues pertaining to cult leaders, followers, and those who may encounter them in a variety of social, medical, and legal contexts. This text applies evidence-based study to specific group subtypes to facilitate conceptualization, understanding, treatment, and approach to cult leaders and members alike. Chapters review the empirical basis of the contemporary understanding of cults and organizations with similar frameworks, addressing issues as they relate to unique populations, comorbid mental disorders, mind-altering substances, treatment, and the forensic and legal implications inherent to them. This book will appeal to psychiatrists, psychologists, other mental health professionals, and those working in the judicial system.

• Categorizes cultist groups in a typological manner, allowing for readers to better apply existing literature to pertinent populations
• Examines the effects of various psychiatric and psychological conditions, facilitating knowledge and awareness to mental health and legal experts
• Assesses legal issues pertaining to cultist activities, providing a conceptual and legal framework for forensic professionals