Hi everyone:
It seems to me there may be a misunderstanding here.
This is not a "locked down" board.
Let's sort it out a bit.
First of all, the issue of L. Ron Hubbard and his psychological problems, erratic behavior, etc. is discussed in some depth within "Going Clear" the documentary and also
Going Clear the book in detail.
So if your are interested in this subject please catch the documentary, which is excellent, on HBO or read the book by Lawrence Wright.
BTW--I write about this too to some extent in my book
Cults Inside Out and specifically cite the fact that the drug Vistaril (hydrooxyzine) was found in L. Ron Hubbard's blood at death, according to the coronner's report. This is within a chapter in my book about Scientology.
See [
www.drugs.com]
"Vistaril is used as a sedative to treat anxiety and tension. It is also used together with other medications given for anesthesia. Vistaril may also be used to control nausea and vomiting."
Of course Scientology insists that Hubbard had no psychological problems and didn't take Vistaril for such problems, despite the fact that this is quite often its common purpose.
All Dr. Mann is trying to do here is set the thread straight about the issue of making definitive sounding statements and/or procnouncements about someone's mental state, without proper credentials and a formal evaluation.
Frankly, zeuszor has a history at this board of causing arguments and killing threads. He basically did this endlessly on the Jesus Christians thread until just about everybody left. He seems to like stirring up trouble.
Dr. Mann on the other hand is a member of the Cult Education Institute Adviory board and has a PhD in forensic psychology. It's part of her job to do psychiological evaluations and she has been qualified and testified as an expert in a number of court cases across the United States.
So on one hand we have Dr. Mann, a licensed professional and court expert helpfully trying to make some distinctions, while zeuszor just appears to be trying to start some argument on this thread, which is sadly his history.
It's OK to say whatever you think, such as in your opinion this or that leader seems crazy, odd, manipulative or whatever. But that's not the same as seeming of render a diagnosis, which is the domain of qualified mental health professionals.
It's OK to say that it wouldn't surprise you if a certain leader was diagnosed as a "psychopath," or point out that according to the
Going Clear book and dcoumetary L. Ron Hubbard apparently had psychological problems or behavior issues.
But no one can offer a specific stated diagnosis without the proper time and credentials to do it.
This board will always be open for anyone to share personal experiences and personal opinions, but not as a platform for someone pretending to be an expert.
Let's stay within reasonable parameters and the posted rules.
All the best to everyone.
Edited 5 time(s). Last edit at 04/11/2015 03:45AM by rrmoderator.