Psychology of Cults
Introduction to the issue and related psychological concepts:
In this section, you will explain your topic/issue and identify a key psychological concept that claims to explain the causes and/or effects of the issue. This section should contain reference citations to the authors whose theories or concepts you are using.
For example, if you are discussing immigration fears, you would cite those researchers who claim to understand why people fear immigration. You aren’t giving your personal opinion, but rather the opinion of those who have studied it and found certain “truths”.
Current Trends in the Data / Literature Review:
In this section, you will continue to look at current information (no more than 10 years old), from empirical studies published in peer-reviewed journals, that explain the link between the issue and psychological concepts discussed in the introduction section.
Most topics require 2-3 empirical studies that you will summarize in this section. An empirical study means the authors used the scientific method in their research.
Thinking Critically
In this section, reexamine the issue in light of the research. Summarize the data and present your summary using a visual aid (e.g., graph, table, etc.). Does the data support the “mainstream” view of this issue?
You may discuss the “for and against” positions. Does the data provide evidence “for” or “against”? Does the data provide evidence of the cause of the issue?
Social Responsibility
In this section, consider sociocultural factors that influence this issue, if not noted before. Relate the issue and the data to individual responsibility within our society. Consider personal choice (point of view) versus “mainstream” thinking.
How could we fulfill our individual social responsibilities? Support your argument rationally with what you have learned.
You will have the ability to include personal opinion here, but it should be based on your findings from the literature you reviewed.
Conclusions
In this final section, you will summarize your research project.
