Characteristics of a Sociopath

Characteristics of a Sociopath, quoted in a brave blog of survivors from a cult-like fellowship in Australia, Tales from the Crypt. Unfortunately, not always open to public view Tales of the Crypt gives a list of traits associated with sociopaths, and you can get a feel for things to watch out for if your group leader or pastor seems to be leading in an abusive direction. Gives a very detailed description of how abusive people manipulate followers.

Also, on that site was (not sure it's still accessible)this very insightful list of common excuses people give for their abusive pastors and church leaders:

• a) They aren’t like that all the time
• b) They are only like that with you
• c) They didn’t really mean it
• d) You don’t really understand them
• e) You are just being difficult
• f) You must have a problem with them (do you think?)
• g) That’s just the way they are
• h) They are just very passionate about their work