Published: 2025-12-12

Ostracism and Social Exclusion as a Tool of Control over Individuals Influenced by Controversial Cultic Groups: The Case of Jehovah’s Witnesses

dr Mariusz Gajewski
Family Forum
Section: Varia (o rodzinie)
DOI https://doi.org/10.25167/FF/5537

Abstract

Research Background: The article addresses the analysis of ostracism, stigmatization, and exclusion encountered in various social groups, particularly within controversial new religious movements and cults. Referring to existing literature, it is indicated that in cults, ostracism as a tool of control becomes an effective form of manipulating human relationships.
Research Aim: The aim of the study was to understand the phenomenon of ostracism and its associated stigmatization and exclusion experienced by participants of a forum focusing on former and current Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Methodology: The study employed a quantitative method incorporating phenomenological content analysis and contemporary netnographic techniques. This methodology allowed for a detailed exploration and categorization of posts on an online forum. A total of 650 posts from forum members across 92 threads were analyzed.
Research Findings: The results indicate a strong similarity in the experiences and perceptions of ostracism among the participants. The analysis of forum posts revealed that participants associate the experience of ostracism with the process of destroying intra-group relationships and often severing familial ties.
Conclusions: Thought control, emotional and behavioral moderation through ostracism lead to psychological, emotional, and existential suffering among members of controversial cultic groups. The analysis presented confirms that group leaders deliberately and effectively control both intra-group relationships and the scope of contacts with individuals outside the group. The particular controversy centers around the disruption of familial bonds.
Recommendations: Following the discussion of specific research categories, concrete pedagogical and therapeutic solutions are proposed to support planned preventive measures against ostracism from controversial new religious movements and cults.

Keywords:

Ostracism, Stigmatization, Exclusion, cultural elements, Prevention, Family, Pedagogy

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Citation rules

Gajewski, M. (2025). Ostracism and Social Exclusion as a Tool of Control over Individuals Influenced by Controversial Cultic Groups: The Case of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Family Forum, 15, 459–483. https://doi.org/10.25167/FF/5537

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