Reader's Guide

Welcome to Cults, Culture and Coercion. I’ve organized the most essential and impactful content by why you’re here so you can get started.


If You’re A Survivor Recovering From a Cult or Controlling Relationship

You got out, but you’re still carrying the confusion, the self-doubt, the questions. Was it really that bad? Why did I stay so long? Can I ever trust myself again? These feelings are normal.


If You’re Trying To Help A Loved One

Learn about the most common errors when interacting with loved ones, how the brain changes while in a cult, and how to truly connect with others without pushing them away.


If You’re A Mental Health Professional

Learn about cult dynamics, coercive control, or how to help clients who’ve been subjected to undue influence.


If You Want To Understand How Cults Work

Maybe you’re not personally affected, but you see cult dynamics in politics, in social media, in workplaces, in movements. You want to understand the mechanics of manipulation.


If You Want to Learn About Different Cults

If you’re interested in reading about the nuanced experiences and little-spoken realities of cult environments, these articles are for you.


Cults, Culture & Coercion with Dr. Steve Hassan is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.