Personality is a dangerous thing, and the ability to influence people can be used for ill just as easily as it's used for good. We naturally find ourselves attracted to magnetic people, allowing their charisma to blind ourselves to their intentions and ideas.
Criminology and psychology researcher Joe Navarro has dedicated his life to understanding the twisted charisma of cults and cult leaders. Here, we've outlined his list of 50 traits common to cult leaders that help them dominate the lives of others.
(7/50)
GiphyIs exploitative of others by asking for their money or that of relatives putting others at financial risk.
(8/50)
GiphyHas an exaggerated sense of power (entitlement) that allows him to bend rules and break laws.
(13/50)
GiphyMakes members confess their sins or faults publicly subjecting them to ridicule or humiliation while revealing exploitable weaknesses of the penitent.
(14/50)
GiphyHas ignored the needs of others, including: biological, physical, emotional, and financial needs.
(16/50)
GiphyDoesn't seem to listen well to needs of others, communication is usually one-way in the form of dictates.
(17/50)
GiphyNeeds to be the centre of attention and does things to distract others to insure that he or she is being noticed by arriving late, using exotic clothing, overdramatic speech, or by making theatrical entrances.
(18/50)
GiphyHas insisted in always having the best of anything (house, car, jewelry, clothes) even when others are relegated to lesser facilities, amenities, or clothing.
(20/50)
GiphyBehaves as though people are objects to be used, manipulated or exploited for personal gain.
(29/50)
GiphyHas a certain coldness or aloofness about him that makes others worry about who this person really is and or whether they really know him.
(30/50)
GiphyIs deeply offended when there are perceived signs of boredom, being ignored or of being slighted.
(33/50)
GiphyThe word I dominates his conversations. He is oblivious to how often he references himself.
(36/50)
GiphyBelieves he possesses the answers and solutions to world problems.
(40/50)
GiphyHas isolated members of his sect from contact with family or outside world.
(45/50)
GiphySeems to be highly dependent of tribute and adoration and will often fish for compliments.
