2 reasons women are more likely to join NAMs/NRMs

Question 1

NRMs - cults - need for self improvement

Answer 1

society is patriarchal and expects women to look their best

cults - world affirming and promise members rewards in this life as well as advice on self improvement - scientology practices dianetics which promise members ability to reach full potential.

Question 2

NRMs criticism

Answer 2

NRMs often fail to fulfil their promises so drop out rates are high.

Question 3

NAMs - afford women status and promote closeness to nature

Answer 3

heelas and woodhead’s research - 80% of Kendall holistic milieu participants were women.

Aldridge - this is because NAMs offer more positive image of femininity than traditional religions - reawakens interest in the goddess, giving women central role in religion.

bruce - women’s experience of child bearing makes them more focused on wellbeing - NAMs promote maintenance of wellbeing, e.g through herbalism and meditation which women are attracted to.

Question 4

NAMs critcism

Answer 4

only applies to middle aged m/c women who can afford these services.