noun
- plural of deprogrammer; people who attempt to free someone from the influence of a cult, coercive group, or indoctrination through counseling or other intervention methods
Usage: often used in contexts involving cult recovery and exit counseling; the practice and ethics of deprogramming remain controversial
Examples
- The family hired deprogrammers to help their son leave the religious group.
- Deprogrammers work with individuals who have been subjected to intense indoctrination.
- Some deprogrammers use psychological techniques to help people recognize manipulation.
- The ethics of deprogrammers' methods have been debated by mental health professionals.
- Former cult members sometimes become deprogrammers themselves to help others escape.