The Sheep Trap

Unquestioning loyalty and uniformity of thought are high on the agenda of any narcissistic leader in any kind of organization, be it social, political or spiritual.

Whereas in some cults, open stigmatizing, ostracizing, public humiliation and punishment are common tools to achieve this, churches and religious groups 'on the way down' often start with more subtle means. Once the rot has started, it can be very difficult to stop, since it is self perpetuating and becomes its own means of survival.

All entail some version of the entrapment below, in which the unfortunate member, brave enough to raise concerns, finds himself 'condemned without trial' and consequently 'imprisoned'.

Be prepared to ask yourself some tough questions if you recognize this dynamic in your own community.