Researchers at the University of Groningen are seeking participants for a study exploring the social and emotional consequences of leaving high-control religious movements. The project centres lived experiences of disaffiliation and aims to inform both academic understanding and professional support practices for individuals navigating life after exit.
About the study
Title:
New Religious Outsiders: Understanding the Consequences of Disaffiliation from High-Cost Religious Movements in the Netherlands and Flanders
Lead researcher:
Joëlle Fennebeumer
Institution:
University of Groningen
This study examines the underexplored process of disaffiliation from high-cost religious movements, including New Religious Movements often referred to as cults. It focuses on how individuals disengage from environments characterised by high levels of commitment, behavioural conformity, and varying degrees of control over members’ interactions with the outside world.
The research is situated in the Netherlands and Flanders, and explores how cultural context, religious diversity, and public discourse shape both the process of leaving and post-affiliation trajectories. Particular attention is given to the socio-emotional consequences of disaffiliation, including identity transformation, changes in relationships, and shifting senses of belonging.
Key areas of focus include:
- Processes of disengagement from high-control religious groups
- Socio-emotional and psychological impacts of disaffiliation
- Identity transformation and reconstruction of self
- The role of cultural context in shaping post-affiliation experiences
- Professional and institutional responses to disaffiliation
The broader aim is to generate empirically grounded insights that advance interdisciplinary research across religious studies, sociology, and the psychology of religion, while contributing to more informed and compassionate support structures for former members.
Research ethics and participant information
This study has received formal ethics approval and provides full participant information prior to involvement.
- Informed consent form
- IRB / ethics approval
Participation is voluntary. Participants may pause or withdraw at any time without consequence. Confidentiality and anonymity are strictly safeguarded through secure data storage, the use of pseudonyms, and the removal of identifying details in all outputs. Participants will have the opportunity to review transcripts, request edits or deletions, and approve the use of quotations. Referral information for professional support will be provided where needed.
What participation involves
Participants are invited to take part in an in-depth qualitative interview using a life-narrative approach.
- A life-narrative, semi-structured interview exploring personal experiences of disaffiliation
Key topics include:
- Personal experiences of leaving a high-control religious group
- Emotional and social impacts of disaffiliation
- Identity transformation and rebuilding life after exit
Participants may skip any questions they prefer not to answer.
Why participate
- Contribute to research that centres lived experiences of disaffiliation
- Support the development of better-informed care and support systems
- Help improve public and professional understanding of high-control religious groups
- Participate in research that informs both academic and practical responses to coercive environments
Who the study is for
This study is for individuals who:
- Self-identify as former members of a high-cost religious movement, or are currently in the process of leaving
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Lived in the Netherlands or Flanders during their period of involvement
- Are able to participate in an interview conducted (largely) in Dutch
The study aims to recruit approximately 40 participants (20 in the Netherlands and 20 in Flanders).
Research background and impact
This PhD project is situated at the intersection of religious studies, sociology, and the psychology of religion, and is supported by academic supervisors at the University of Groningen.
Previous work includes:
- Research on secularist understandings of religious practices and spirituality
- Studies on feminist movements and religious disaffiliation
- Contributions to scholarship on religion, embodiment, and social transformation
The project is designed to have both academic and societal impact. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and engagement with professional networks, as well as through knowledge-sharing with care professionals and organizations.
This research may:
- Advance interdisciplinary understanding of disaffiliation and identity transformation
- Inform counseling, social support, and mental health practices
- Support the development of more effective and empathetic support systems for former members
How to participate
To express interest or learn more, please contact the researcher directly or complete this form.
Contact
For questions or more information:
Joëlle Fennebeumer
Email: j.n.fennebeumer@rug.nl
Phone: +31 637194686
