I wish that a workshop, such as posted below, existed twenty some years ago when I left the TMO. Learning outside life on my own took quite a while, with many mistakes. Please pass this information to others raised in cults. TMFree does not maintain an official relationship with the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA). We offer this information as a service for our readers. Complete workshop information can be found at the links in this post. Gina personally knows the professionals running this workshop. They are professional, kind, knowledgeable and supportive. Working with them, and meeting others also raised in cult-type groups, can be of great help to those trying to make life on their own after leaving their family/cult.*************
International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
Surviving and Moving On After a High Demand Group Experience
A Workshop for Second-Generation Former Members
Friday 3:00 p.m. April 17, 2009 to Sunday 2:00 p.m. April 19, 2009
Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center, 1601 Alafaya Trail, Oviedo, FL 32765 (407-365-5571)
Online Information and Registration: Copy and paste the following URL into your browser:
http://icsahome.com/infoserv_conferences/Workshops/2009_SGA_FL.aspThe International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) has run workshops for former members of high-demand, "cultic" groups for many years. In recent years increasing numbers of people born or raised in such groups (i.e., "second generation adults" - SGAs) have attended these workshops. These ex-members have special needs, which can be most effectively addressed through a workshop that focuses on them. SGAs do not have a "pre-cult identity" to which they can return. SGAs raised in fringe subcultures have to learn the implicit rules and expectations of mainstream culture. SGAs frequently have educational and other skill deficits that interfere with adjustment to mainstream culture. Having grown up in high-control groups that are often based on irrational belief systems, SGAs tend to struggle with issues of dependency, self-esteem, and social conflict. Because many SGAs were physically or sexually abused, they often have to deal with anger, resentment, and other emotions related to trauma. SGAs have difficulty getting help because they tend to lack finances and be wary of other people, including helpers.
This workshop will address the needs of SGAs through a series of brief didactic presentations (supplemented by written handouts) followed by discussions, to which attendees may contribute according to their comfort levels. Specifically, the workshop will address:
* critical thinking
* socialization, culture shock, and acculturation
* psychological development, child abuse and neglect, parenting styles, boundaries, and trust
* long-term psychological, educational, and emotional effects of growing up in a culture of abuse and neglect
* relationships with families and others
This workshop has been made possible by special donations and the willingness of facilitators to volunteer large amounts of their time. Without the dedication of these people, registration fees would be much higher than what is listed below. The donations cover a substantial portion of the total cost. Therefore, the fees listed below reflect a significant discount. Because many SGAs struggle economically, additional financial assistance is available for those in need. If you would like to apply for financial assistance, please contact
ICSA.
