Early Signs of Exposure to Toxic Faith:

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EARLY STAGE OF TOXIC FAITH EXPOSURE

· Unwillingness to discuss problems. The individual becomes unapproachable about increasing out-of-control behaviors.

· One-sided sermons. Edicts, Scriptures, and judgments so fill the dialogue with the person that all conversations cease.

· Faith attached to a person. A comforting person becomes the link to toxic faith.

· Intoxicating affiliation. First experiences in new toxic faith group produce immediate mood alteration.

· Growing attraction. Every new meeting, person, and experience increases the attraction to the toxic faith group.

· Heavy church attendance. Attendance becomes a means of avoidance and a way to be part of the group with little relationship with God.

· Conformity with other addicts. The person starts to look, dress, and talk like others in the group.

· Lack of intimate relationships. Intimacy with friends and family is sacrificed for the sake of religion.

· Growing denial and self-justification. The person becomes blind to problems and justifies behavior.

· Scripture as a weapon. Verses are quoted to judge others and justify self.

The initial stage of toxicity is a difficult one to spot. Many who do the same things as those receiving toxic exposure are actually involved in a real faith, but their motives and foundations are different. Many faithful followers would be wrongly labeled as in the first-stage toxic faith.