Ep 8. Synanon

In season 2 episode 8 of Deadly Cults, we take a closer look at the controversial Synanon cult. Founded in 1958 by Charles Dederich, a former alcoholic, Synanon started as a drug rehabilitation center that gained a following for its unconventional tactics and intense therapy sessions. Members, known as "Synanites," were encouraged to cut all ties with outside society and devote themselves entirely to the group.

As Synanon grew in popularity, its methods became increasingly extreme. Dederich proclaimed that the organization was not a traditional cult but a "game," and members were subjected to grueling physical challenges and verbal abuse during so-called "attack therapy" sessions. Synanon also implemented a communal living structure where members were required to share all possessions and income, with any notions of "ownership" discouraged.

Despite their cult-like practices, Synanon gained mainstream attention and support, with famous figures such as John Lennon and Yoko Ono publicly endorsing the group. However, this positive attention ultimately turned sour, as Synanon became increasingly aggressive towards outsiders and even its own members. The cult's philosophy at the time was that non-cult members were "squares," and it was their duty to "straighten them out." Synanon members were encouraged to recruit new members aggressively, and those who attempted to leave the group were often met with violence and intimidation.

The episode explores the timeline of Synanon's downfall, including the infamous murder attempt of a lawyer who publicly spoke out against the cult. The attack involved a Synanon member driving a rattlesnake into the lawyer's mailbox, leading to the victim suffering from a near-fatal snake bite. This incident led to a domino effect of negative press coverage for Synanon, with members being exposed for their aggressive tactics and the cult's abuse of children.

We hear from former Synanon members, including one who lost custody of her son after attempting to leave the cult. She describes the brainwashing techniques used on her and other members, including sleep and food deprivation, as well as the pressure to cut ties with friends and family outside the group. Another member recalls the communal living aspect, where everyone was required to share a room and had no personal space or privacy.

The episode also examines the aftermath of Synanon's downfall and what happened to its members. Many former Synanites struggled to assimilate back into mainstream society, with some ending up homeless or turning to drugs and alcohol abuse. Others managed to rebuild their lives, but not without significant trauma and lasting effects from their time in the cult.

In conclusion, Deadly Cults season 2 episode 8 provides a detailed look at the rise and fall of the Synanon cult and its impact on its members. It presents a cautionary tale about the dangers of cults and the importance of speaking out against abusive organizations.