HOW TO PARTICIPATE

There are two ways you can take part in The Longer No Silent Project. You can choose to complete an anonymous online survey, or you may be eligible to take part in a confidential interview. Both options are voluntary, and you can participate in either or both if eligible.

Your contribution helps build the first evidence base on the psychological and social impact of mandated shunning in high-control religious groups.

OPTION 1: COMPLETE THE ANONYMOUS SURVEY

Our survey is designed for people who have experienced mandated shunning, or a similar form of exclusion, from a high-control faith-based community.

We understand that some people may not be sure whether what they went through "counts" as mandated shunning. If you were pressured or forced to cut ties with others or were cut off yourself after leaving or questioning a religious group, this survey may be for you.

You can take part if you:

• Are 18 years or older
• Are a former member of a faith-based group known to practice mandated shunning
• Have personally experienced being shunned (formally or informally)
• Were shunned at least 7 months ago
• Are proficient in spoken English

The survey takes around 40 to 90 minutes, depending on your pace. You don’t need to finish it in one sitting—you can save your answers and come back later.

This survey may seem lengthy, but it is designed to explore a complex and often deeply personal experience. It includes detailed questions about mental health, social impact, and experiences of coercive control. We have also included space for reflection, so your story can be understood in context—not just in numbers.

Your time and insight are incredibly valuable. Every response helps build understanding of the psychological effects of mandated shunning in high-control religious groups.

Your responses are fully anonymous and securely stored.

OPTION 2: TAKE PART IN A CONFIDENTIAL INTERVIEW

We’re also conducting one-on-one interviews to explore the lived experience and wider social, legal, and psychological impacts of mandated shunning. The purpose of the interview is to understand how shunning affects people’s lives in depth, from survivors and professionals alike.

We’re looking for participants from five groups:

1. Former members of faith-based groups that practice shunning

• You are 18+
• You left or were expelled from a religious group known to shun (e.g. Jehovah’s Witnesses, Exclusive Brethren, Scientology, Haredi Judaism, Amish, Mennonites, Bahá'í Faith)
• You were shunned at least 7 months ago
• You speak English
• You are not currently experiencing severe mental health difficulties that might make participation distressing

2. Psychological therapists

• Qualified by BPS, BACP, HCPC, or equivalent
• Have worked with at least one client who experienced mandated shunning

3. Legal professionals

• Hold a law degree and have at least 2 years of experience
• Have worked on or are familiar with cases involving mandated shunning

4. Human rights activists

• Actively engaged in human rights or anti-shunning advocacy
• Experience in campaigns involving religious freedom, discrimination, or social exclusion

5. Religious scholars

• Hold a Master’s or PhD in theology, religious studies, or a related field
• Knowledge of doctrines or communities that include shunning as a practice

Interviews last 60 to 90 minutes and are conducted online. All information is confidential and ethically safeguarded.