Adult Children of Cults: The Experiences of Individuals Born and Raised in a Cult as They Transition into Mainstream Society

ABSTRACT ADULT CHILDREN OF CULTS: THE EXPERIENCES OF INDIVIDUALS BORN AND RAISED IN A CULT AS THEY TRANSITION INTO MAINSTREAM SOCIETY by Susan L. Latta Master of Arts in Social Science California State University, Chico Summer 2011 This study explores the lived experiences of individuals who were born and/or raised in a cult and the issues they encountered and struggled with as they integrated into mainstream society. Data were drawn from transcripts of 12-recorded interviews; subjects included men and women; all had been in a religious cult. Typically, former cult members, who had joined a group as an adult, feel misunderstood and face many issues when attempting to adjust to and fit into mainstream society. Until now, there has been little research on the experiences of those individuals who were born and/or raised in a cult. The purpose of this study was to examine the specific adjustment issues of adult children of cults once they left the cult and entered into the broader society. The research goal was to offer an understanding that will facilitate efficient mainstreaming. The data were analyzed using four categories: state of mind (including depression, anger, and feeling hopeful about the future), state of autonomy (including independence, decision making, and sense of integration), life skills (including finances, work, housing, education, and health issues), and relationships (including sexual identity, marital issues, birth family and friendships). The study also addresses the types of resources that these former members would have found helpful, as identified in the transcripts. This study contributes to a greater understanding of the issues and needs of this particular population, with an aim toward the development of more effective programs for counselors and therapists who may have former cult member clientele