[tragomaskhalos]

This is sort of a counterpoint to #3, but an important litmus for a cult is that it is very difficult to leave voluntarily.

Certainly in the case of the JWs, an individual exiting the cult has to contend not only with the fear and uncertainty preceding their decision to quit, but with subsequently being completely ostracised by family members who are still members. All of this acts as powerful psychological coercion to remain even when one no longer believes in the cult's message, and makes escapees enormously vulnerable.