Flo Conway and Jim Siegelman

Provides an analysis of the techniques used by cults and certain "self help" agencies to alter the personality of the client. It presents a model, using catastrophe theory, in which the person is driven to a snapping point. After this snap, the personality is drastically changed, and often it requires another snap to rectify the situation. The cases discussed include those annoying cults and "self help" groups which roam college campuses In addition, the effects of stress are discussed in industrial settings.