:: February 25, 2005 :: Abusive controlling relationships like cult brainwashing The “Battered Woman Syndrome” often cited in court and by helping professionals assisting those victimized within abusive and controlling relationships parallels many of the same features identified within destructive cults. In this sense abusive and controlling relationships, though seemingly romantic, can be seen as a type of “cult” with a dictatorial leader, usually a man, dominating a single follower as his victim. This has been called the “cultic relationship” and/or a “one-on-one cult.” Over the years cult intervention professionals have been called upon to apply the same expertise developed to free cult victims as an approach to free those caught within the web of abusive controlling relationships. The Ross Institute of New Jersey has recently released an educational DVD/video titled In the Name of Love: Abusive Controlling Relationships, which shares the body of knowledge developed around this subject in an easy to follow format. This educational tool makes an otherwise often confusing situation more easily understood. The DVD/video offers a synthesis of what is known about brainwashing and how this process directly applies to both the Battered Woman Syndrome and most specifically to the dynamics and personalities most often involved in abusive controlling relationships. In the Name of Love also recounts personal stories, such as the experience of singer Tina Turner and the tragic circumstances that led up to the death of Nicole Brown Simpson. Such compelling examples are helpful to better understand the personal cost, internal turmoil and dangers of such relationships. What are the warning signs? What can someone concerned do? What type of individual fits the profile of an abuser? Why don't those abused leave a bad relationship? These and other important questions are answered within the DVD. Darla Boughton the manager for a popular forum related to this subject says, “This DVD is a magnificent breakthrough--a must-have for every classroom, women's shelter, and abuse Web sites everywhere." Much too often society blames the victim rather than attempting to understand the disturbing dynamics within abusive controlling relationships. One third of American women reportedly have been abused under such circumstances, and millions more are potentially at risk. [Posted by Rick Ross at 12:25 PM][Link] ... « Lawsuit against “cult-watcher” dismissed | Main | Is Chicago double murder part of some "holy war"? »