What makes shunning in this religion REAL tough to deal with...(as opposed to being defrocked or ex-communicated, etc.):::
Why it's not as simple as "Why don't you just walk away?"
1-Many JWs lack social skills from birth in JW upbringings, lack of diversity in associations, controlled environments sheltered from the real world.
2-Lack of outside contacts or support "safety net" of outside mentors.
3-Discouragement of seeking any outside independent sources, education or professional help or information. Discouragement of outside independent research after dedication.
4-Discouragement and intolerance of independent thinking and private opinion, or dissenting opinion.
5-Religion portrayed a "way of life" not to be deviated from, only one "way" is claimed to be in divine favor, like one "ark" of salvation, and one God demanding exclusive devotion.
6-Too high a value placed on "oneness" "unity" "brotherhood" inversely proportional to healthy relationship potential outside of the church
7-Larger proportions of entire families are indoctrinated, effectively making abstainers and objectors "black sheep" in their own families
8-"Service" and "spiritual condition" to deity measured numerically and subjectively from peers and overseers.
9-"Spiritual Family" trumps "Fleshly Family" when advice is given over who should one turn to for help in all matters.
just my 2 shillings
