How to Avoid Religious Cults

Most people who find themselves tangled in the ideas and beliefs of a religious cult had no intention of joining a cult. These people are often looking for acceptance, but end up with the wrong crowd. Are you looking for acceptance into a religious group but do not want to be involved with a cult? Here are a few tips to keep from such a pitfall.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Be honest with yourself and to those around you. You probably already have an idea of what kind of group you want to belong to. You do not have to pretend to be someone else.
2. Be aware of what is going on around you. Cults pass themselves off as something else everyday.
3. Understand what each group offers. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
4. Research the group. Investigate and figure out exactly what the group is about and what they actually believe in. If you are told not to say anything about the meetings, or who the members are, you more than likely are involved with a group with secrets, and secrets can be dangerous.
5. Avoid "rock star" leaders. Any group that worships their leader is probably not the right group for you.
6. Be aware of high initiation fees. Religion is not about money.
7. Avoid Doomsday Cults. These cults will try to talk you into buying certain items for the end of the world. There is plenty of evidence in the past regarding Doomsday Cults and the outcome of their futuristic beliefs.
8. Do what feels right and suits you.