The annual ICSA International Conference brings together researchers, health professionals, service providers, and survivors and their families from around the world to engage in open dialogue on the most pressing themes around cultic studies. The 2026 conference explores the theme: Expanding the scope of coercive control: Understanding abusive dynamics and their impacts across interpersonal, institutional, and cultic contexts. Log in to access the conference’s on-demand presentations and join live sessions at their scheduled times.
Published date
27.06.2026
This presentation examines how coercive persuasion affects the brain’s decision-making system and explores the cognitive and emotional impairments that can result from prolonged exposure to high-control environments. Drawing on examples from both cultic and everyday contexts, the session provides a framework for understanding survivor experiences after leaving a high-control group and offers practical insights for recognizing coercive influence and supporting recovery.