Nobody is unaware of how a sense of belonging and purpose makes one feel. Whether
this is fulfilled by the warmth of one’s neighborhood sports team, the sermons of a religious
leader, or attending after-school chess club games, it has been shown that a sense of belonging
holds many benefits such as lowering stress, fewer illnesses, and overall better mental and
physical health (Boardman).

Oftentimes, joining a group of other like-minded individuals can help one increase their
social skills. Furthermore, one can help find or build community through outside clubs or
organizations (“7 Benefits of Joining a Club in College | BestColleges”). At many ages, it is often
repeated how joining these selected communities boosts a sense of belonging (WebMD Editorial
Contributors).

However, what happens when this loyalty and devotion to a group goes too far? Or even
if the community is not standing for a positive impact on oneself or others, can and would one
want to leave? Oftentimes that devotion is maintained due to the sense of belonging the
organization provides (Spelman and Spelman). We will take a deep dive into uncovering why
and how a sense of belonging can be fulfilled, sometimes obsessively. Furthermore, recognizing
when an organization is healthy versus unhealthy, as well as discovering why unhealthy
organizations, such as clans or cults, can still be seen today.

Finally, an exploration will be made about the harmful, and often deadly, effects these
groups can have on communities, nations, and the world. While not every community operates
with these dangers, many of the ones that do have become known in recent years. It is important
to study what causes people to stay in these menacing places without having regard to how
threatening they can really be.

Literacy Review
There are many accounts about communities, clans, and cults because of the influence they have
had on our society. The perspective from psychologists of why one would initially join and stay
in the organization covers multiple areas including a sense of belonging, low self-esteem, and
several other reasons. Additionally, there are multiple documentaries and accounts from
individuals who have taken part in, grown up in, or left these cults or clans. There also are
accounts from those who acted as part of the justice system to try and end the cults or clans or
remove people from it. The perspectives are more than diverse.

Psychologists can offer their professional insight with backed research. The concept of
joining and staying a member of various organizations can be further explored through this
perspective. Furthermore, the research is rather consistent. Most reasons for becoming
members of communities, regardless of their intentions, are generally the same according to
these scientific professionals.

Accounts and stories from those who lived through various groups also supply a unique
outlook on the given topic. The account is first-hand. Interviews will be valuable for the
recognition of all viewpoints. They are directly affected by what happens and the intentions of
the community.

Additionally, references from the state and federal officers who were directly involved in
the removal of people from dangerous clans or cults will be resourced. They speak for the side of
the law. This can give an inside view of what is often seen as the “opposing side” from the
view of those in these villainous communities. The history of this relationship will be further
explored.

Due to the various perspectives, it allows for thorough research. However, deciphering
which information is most correct and relevant can be difficult to distinguish. With the topic
being controversial and having some groups still active, it is vital to be mindful of the
information that is conveyed. This conversation may strike emotion but cannot be based upon
that.

Works Cited

“7 Benefits of Joining a Club in College | BestColleges.” BestColleges.com,
www.bestcolleges.com/blog/benefits-joining-clubcollege/#:~:text=Joining%20an%20on%2Dcampus%20club,clubs%20and%20make%20r
eal%20commitments.

Boardman, Sally. The Importance of Developing a Sense of Belonging.
www.lifeskillsgroup.com.au/blog/belonging#:~:text=A%20sense%20of%20belonging%2
0is,and%20decreased%20wellbeing%20and%20depression.

Spelman, Becky, and Becky Spelman. “The Psychology Behind Cults.” Private Therapy Clinic,
Dec. 2021, theprivatetherapyclinic.co.uk/blog/the-psychology-behindcults/#:~:text=Many%20join%20cults%20simply%20out,friendship%20they%20could%
20ever%20need.

WebMD Editorial Contributors. “Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for Kids.” WebMD, 3
Mar. 2021, www.webmd.com/parenting/benefits-extracurricular-activities-kids.