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The Psychology of Satanic Worship

A significant amount of media attention has recently been focused on allegations of widespread Satanic activity in South Africa. However, little social scientific research has been forthcoming on the nature, incidence, activities, and psychological dynamics associated with Satanism. In this article I attempt to address this lacuna by examining the definition, history, social context, and ideology of Satanism. ‘Satanism is defined as a specific religious cult, characterized by the inversion of Christian norms and ideology. It is argued that the apparent increase in Satanic activity is related to a socio-economic context of radical cultural change, turmoil, and social instability. Contemporary white adolescents, feeling alienated, anxious, and powerless, are attracted to Satanism as a means of obtaining magical power and control over their destiny. Satanism, in addition, meets specific psychological needs which are not met by other forms of religious worship. In the article I consider the psychological factors which predispose individuals to Satanic activities, and concludes by examining the diagnostic status of demonic possession in clinical psychology.