BITE Model of Authoritarian Control, what is it:
The BITE model of authoritarian control was developed by Steven Hassan, a mental health professional and expert on cults. BITE stands for Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional control. The model is designed to analyze and categorize the methods used by authoritarian groups, including cults, to manipulate and control individuals.
Here’s a brief overview of each component of the BITE model:
Behavior Control:
- Regulating an individual’s physical activities.
- Restricting social interactions.
- Dictating dress codes and grooming standards.
- Enforcing rigid rules and schedules.
Information Control:
- Limiting or controlling access to information from the outside world.
- Discouraging or prohibiting critical thinking.
- Manipulating and distorting information to suit the group’s agenda.
- Suppressing dissenting opinions or alternative perspectives.
Thought Control:
- Imposing a rigid belief system and discouraging questioning or doubt.
- Promoting a black-and-white worldview with no room for ambiguity.
- Using loaded language and thought-stopping techniques to discourage critical thinking.
Emotional Control:
- Manipulating emotions through fear and guilt.
- Creating an “us versus them” mentality.
- Encouraging dependency on the group for emotional support.
- Suppressing or discrediting emotions that are deemed negative or dissenting.
The BITE model serves as a tool to assess the level of control and influence exerted by a particular group or organization over its members. It’s important to note that the BITE model is not limited to religious cults; it can also be applied to political movements, abusive relationships, or any situation where an individual’s autonomy and critical thinking are systematically undermined.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 