The Kenya Association of Professional Counsellors has revealed various techniques used by cult leaders to recruit new followers.
The association in their submissions to the Senate Ad Hoc committee investigating the Shakahola tragedy said cult leaders employ various psychological manipulation techniques to attract more people.
These techniques may include love bombing where individuals are showered with affection and attention, creating a sense of belonging and dependency.
The techniques may also include deception, coercive persuasion, emotional manipulation and exploitation of vulnerabilities.
The submissions as detailed in the final report tabled in the Senate say the cult leaders may also demonstrate a charismatic persona, intelligence and strong communication skills which help them attract and retain followers.
“They may instil fear, guilt and dependency in their followers, making it difficult for them to question or leave the group,” the report says.
According to the association, cult leaders exhibit certain psychological traits that contribute to their ability to exert influence and control over their followers.
“These individuals often possess charismatic qualities, exceptional persuasion skills and a strong sense of self-belief,” the report reads.
The report says their deep need for power, control and adoration fuels their desire to establish and maintain a following.
Cult leaders can display a range of characteristics, including narcissism, grandiosity and a lack of empathy.
The report says the cult leaders have an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for constant admiration and a lack of empathy for others.
“These traits drive them to seek power and control over others, using their followers as sources of validation and adulation,” it notes.
Childhood experiences, personality disorders, unresolved psychological conflicts and a desire for significance and belonging are some of the factors identified to contribute to the emergence and behaviour of cult leaders.
It notes that cults typically emerge through a gradual process that involves the charismatic leader gaining a following and establishing a set of beliefs and practices.
This process often begins with the leader targeting vulnerable individuals who are searching for meaning, purpose, or solutions to their problems.
The leader presents themselves as the answer to these needs and gradually expands their influence and control.
After the followers are recruited into the cult, the cult leaders use a combination of psychological and social control techniques to maintain their allegiance.
These techniques include strict adherence to rules and regulations, groupthink dynamics, manipulation of information and the creation of an us-versus-them mentality.
“Through these methods, leaders ensure the unquestioning loyalty and obedience of their members. Social influence and group dynamics play a significant role in the indoctrination of cult members.”
