Thought Control from Parenting, to Behavior Mod, to Cults, to Brainwashing,
Abstract
In this paper we have pointed out how coercive psychological techniques are prevalent in our society, not only in malignant situations such as POW and hostage experiences and terroristic kidnappings, but also in relatively benign situations such as religious retreats and childrearing practices. Analogous methods are also applied in advertising, in our educational systems, in therapeutic situations and behavioral modification efforts. It is important to reexamine these techniques emphasizing the ethics and human rights involved, particularly in those areas where we have some control. Certainly, within both civilian and military life, individuals differ in their susceptability to thought control. Perhaps if all of us were not continually conditioned from birth onward to bend to others' value systems in almost every institution we enter, coercive persuasion might be easier to resist. Research has shown us that individuals are far less susceptible to coercive persuasion where there is group support from comrades, where there exists a well-ingrained sense of values, and where the individual has a strong commitment to a cause, be is self, God, or country. Thus, we are back to a recognition of the critical importance of early childhood training and skillful, effective parenting.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADP003240
Entities
People
- E. J. Hunter
- R. E. Hestand