Deprograming: meaning, definitions and examples

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deprograming

 

[ diːˈproʊɡrə mɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

psychological treatment

Deprogramming refers to a psychological process aimed at reversing the effects of indoctrination or brainwashing. It often involves therapeutic techniques designed to help individuals regain their autonomy and critical thinking skills after exposure to extreme beliefs or manipulative organizations. This process is commonly associated with individuals who have left cults or high-control groups. The goal of deprogramming is to assist individuals in re-evaluating their beliefs and reconnecting with their original value systems.

Synonyms

cognitive restructuring, rehabilitation, unschooling.

Examples of usage

  • After years in the cult, she finally sought deprogramming.
  • The therapist specialized in deprogramming former members of extremist groups.
  • His deprogramming process included counseling and support from family.
  • Many organizations offer deprogramming services for individuals seeking to leave dangerous groups.

Translations

Translations of the word "deprograming" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desprogramação

🇮🇳 डीप्रोग्रामिंग

🇩🇪 Deprogramming

🇮🇩 deprogramming

🇺🇦 депрограмування

🇵🇱 deprogramowanie

🇯🇵 デプログラミング

🇫🇷 déprogrammation

🇪🇸 desprogramación

🇹🇷 deprogramlama

🇰🇷 디프로그래밍

🇸🇦 إزالة البرمجة

🇨🇿 deprogramování

🇸🇰 deprogramovanie

🇨🇳 去编程

🇸🇮 deprogramiranje

🇮🇸 afprogramun

🇰🇿 декодтау

🇬🇪 დეპროგრამირება

🇦🇿 deprogramming

🇲🇽 desprogramación

Etymology

The term 'deprogramming' emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, rooted in concerns around brainwashing and coercive persuasion. It gained prominence as mental health professionals and activists sought to support individuals exiting cults, which had increased in visibility during this period. The concept highlighted the need for psychological interventions to help those who had been subjected to intense ideological conditioning. Its usage evolved through various sociopolitical contexts, particularly in relation to religious sects and totalitarian movements. The rise of the term was influenced by media coverage of high-profile cases of deprogramming, where families sought to rescue loved ones involved in controversial groups. Over time, deprogramming has remained a contentious subject, with debates around ethics and effectiveness, especially as some approaches faced criticism for their confrontational methods.