Scientology Criticism

Up: Martin Poulter > Scientology Criticism

Scientology Disconnections in the UK

Background

Disconnection is a Scientology policy abased on the idea that you cannot progress spiritually while in communication with someone who is "Suppressive" (i.e. opposed to Scientology). Hence members are required to break off communication with family or friends if they criticise the member's involvement, and if they cannot be persuaded to silence their criticism.

Members send "disconnection letters" to the friend or family member to state that no more communication will take place. It's understandably extremely distressing to receive these letters.

For more instances of Disconnection, see ScientologyDisconnection.com and Mike Gormez's Scientology Disconnection policy at work

Videos

• Jenna Miscavige, niece of Scientology leader David Miscavige, talks about how Disconnection policy broke up her family. Broadcast February 2008 by ABC's "Inside Edition" (USA)
• The Lily family of Bognor Regis spoke about the disconnection of their daughters on the local TV programme Facing South in November 1987
• A South African man, raised in Scientology hasn't heard from his mother since 1989: she is still a member and has disconnected from her ex-husband and her two children. Interviewed by Martin Poulter, 12th April 2008, Birmingham

See also Astra Woodcraft speaks out

Official Documents

Justice Latey reported "Very many examples [of Disconnection] have been given and proved in evidence," and quoted two examples of Disconnection letters, one a man disconnecting from his fiancée; another a man disconnecting from a friend and business partner.

Media Coverage

Up: Martin Poulter > Scientology Criticism