When a Sample of Americans Was Asked,"Why Do You Think

question 52

Essay

When a sample of Americans was asked,"Why do you think people become involved in cults?" the most frequently mentioned causes were "need for leadership or father figure," "unhappiness,feeling of hopelessness," "gullibility," "need to have a sense of belonging," and "mental illness." Please give your own answer to this question,and offer an interpretation of the responses given by the individuals sampled in this survey.

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Definitions:

Endorphins

Chemical substances in the nervous system that are similar in structure and action to opiates; they are involved in pain reduction, pleasure, and memory and are known technically as endogenous opioid peptides.

Soothing Effect

A calming or relaxing influence that reduces stress or discomfort.

Human Evolution

The lengthy process of change by which people originated from apelike ancestors, characterized by developments such as bipedalism and larger brains.

Store Calories

The process by which the body converts food intake into energy reserves, primarily in the form of fat, for future use.