What types of people become leaders of unsafe and/or destructive groups?
Many cult leaders seem to be narcissistic personalities often fantasizing about messianic visions that will change the course of human history, while appearing to have little if any conscience. Some make claims that they are the exclusive voice of God, “psychic” connections to historical figures, or aliens from outer space. Often these leaders seem deeply delusional and disturbed and some have been called psychopaths. Marshall Applewhite, the leader of “Heaven’s Gate” was once confined to a mental hospital. Extreme examples of destructive and delusional behavior by cult leaders such as Jim Jones, David Koresh and Shoko Asahara have caused many mental health professionals to question their sanity. Still others simply may be opportunistic con men or women–exploiting their followers for personal profit and self-interest.
Related Questions
- What types of people are recruited by cults or become involved in potentially unsafe or destructive groups and relationships?
- What types of people are recruited by cults and/or become involved in potentially unsafe or destructive groups?
- What types of people become leaders of unsafe and/or destructive groups?
