Once you have understood the cult member, it is necessary to understand the cult. One needs to analyze two aspects for this – the destructive potential of the cult and the organizational structure of the cult. The first can be obtained by learning more about the leader of the cult and then by comparing his/her doctrines with similar but legitimate organizations. This allows you to recognize how actual beliefs are being molded by the leader to achieve his/her set goals and gives you an insight into how destructive such altered beliefs can be.

Organizational structure gives you an insight into the balance of power. Most destructive cults maintain a pyramid type hierarchy, with all power centralized to one person. This centralized power is a clear indicator of a destructive cult where the fate of many depends on the whim of one.

There is also a third aspect, in addition to the above two, that needs to be considered. Stay tuned for the third point that can give you insight into the workings of a cult.