Normally, when I try to help people out of cults, I never criticize the leader, doctrine or policy directly at first. Doing so triggers thought-stopping, makes them feel attacked, hardens beliefs and affirms the narrative forwarded by the cult that “the world is out to get them!”
When I look across the internet, I, unfortunately, see most of us applying the OPPOSITE approach. When Trump supporters say wild distorted things, most people respond with even MORE vitriol We often call them “dumb” or “stupid” to name a few common insults.
I understand the anger. Donald Trump has locked kids in cages. Donald Trump has legitimized hate and completely denigrated any semblance of truth.
But if we want to find a way out of this, we have to stick with methods that WORK. Insults don’t work. It’s a psychology thing.
But if we want to find a way out of this, we have to stick with methods that WORK. Insults don’t work. It’s a psychology thing.
If you want a MASTER CLASS in how to talk to Trump fans, look no further than comedian @SarahKSilverman. 2 years ago, Trump supporter @davidmweissman accused Silverman & other liberals of “caring more about Illegals than American Veterans.” She responded. In David's words:
"We started talking and it was civil. There was no name-calling, no insults. And I kind of realized, 'Woah, I'm not used to that.' And that's what made an impact on me.”
For months they continued talking and these conversations started to make a change. See for yourself:
Talking like this ISN'T passive. You can still disagree and refute falsehoods but you always take the higher road. When they say something crazy, you don’t let it affect you. You intuitively understand that they have been captured by a cult-like mania.
After you’ve gained enough trust and set up enough rapport, you then can then ask them some questions. You always tread lightly. Your job is not to TELL them but to try to help them realize things on their own.
I implore all of you to try this with people online or friends or family you've lost touch with. It’s certainly not easy, but this method can heal.
