ex-Scientologist
Left the church
An ex-Scientologist is a former member of the Church of Scientology who has left the organization.
The term often implies not just departure but disillusionment or active criticism of the church's practices: Ex-Scientologists have spoken publicly about their experiences.
Some prefer the term "former Scientologist" as more neutral.
Insider who reports misconduct
- exposéInvestigative journalism piece
- documentaryFactual film about reality
- testimonySworn statement as evidence
- lawsuitCivil court proceeding
speaking out · critic · watchdog · media interview · podcast · protest · picketing · Anonymous
Examining records for accuracy
- bridgeStructure spanning an obstacle
- clearWithout obstruction or fog
- DianeticsPseudoscientific mental health doctrine
- fair gameLegitimate object of pursuit
mission · org · ethics officer
Reversing coercive belief implantation
- therapyCurative mental treatment
- reintegrationRestoration to a group
- reconnectionRestoring a broken link
- healingRestoration of health
trauma · PTSD · critical thinking · family reunification · support group · counseling · adjustment · deconditioning
Abandoning one's loyalty
- escapeFlight from captivity
- leavingAct of going away
- disconnectTo break a connection
- excommunicationFormal barring from sacraments
declared · blowing · goldenrod · walking away · resignation · apostasy · disaffiliation · exit
Internet discussion platform
- support systemNetwork providing assistance
- shared experienceEvent undergone by multiple people
- fellowshipMutual goodwill among companions
- solidarityUnity among allies
mutual aid · meetup · validation · understanding · kinship · camaraderie
whistleblower
Insider who reports misconduct
- exposéInvestigative journalism piece
- documentaryFactual film about reality
- testimonySworn statement as evidence
speaking out · lawsuit · critic · watchdog · media interview · podcast · protest · picketing · Anonymous · human rights
auditing
Examining records for accuracy
- bridgeStructure spanning an obstacle
- clearWithout obstruction or fog
- DianeticsPseudoscientific mental health doctrine
fair game · mission · org · ethics officer
deprogramming
Reversing coercive belief implantation
- therapyCurative mental treatment
- reintegrationRestoration to a group
- reconnectionRestoring a broken link
healing · trauma · PTSD · critical thinking · family reunification · support group · counseling · adjustment · deconditioning · rebuilding
defection
Abandoning one's loyalty
- escapeFlight from captivity
- leavingAct of going away
- disconnectTo break a connection
excommunication · declared · blowing · goldenrod · walking away · resignation · apostasy · disaffiliation · exit · break
online forum
Internet discussion platform
- support systemNetwork providing assistance
- shared experienceEvent undergone by multiple people
- fellowshipMutual goodwill among companions
solidarity · mutual aid · meetup · validation · understanding · kinship · camaraderie
- ex-believersapostate, ex-believer, former believer, lapsed, deconvert
ex-Scientologisttrue believer
Completely committed adherent
believer · follower · adherent · practitioner
Scientologist, Scientology, science, scientific, scientifically, scientist, sciences, scientists, conscientious