“Psychologically Kidnapped!”

Abstract

The author analyzes cases of “secular” deprogrammings—including the infamous case of Stephanie Riethmiller’s deprogramming for being a lesbian—and brainwashing opposition generally. The author argues that a fear of social change primarily of the traditional family structure informs brainwashing opposition, and occasionally that fear makes brainwashing oppositional tactics spill over into other areas of American life.