Explore the rise and fall of the controversial treatment center – which drew criticism for cult-like behavior.more
Explore the rise and fall of the controversial treatment center –...More
Starring: Jady Dederich MontgomeryMiriam BourdettePhil Bourdette
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Explore the rise and fall of the controversial treatment center – which drew criticism for cult-like behavior.
Starring: Jady Dederich MontgomeryMiriam BourdettePhil BourdetteElena BroslovskyMarshall Carder
Recovering alcoholic Chuck Dederich opens a storefront drug rehabilitation program that gains a following through its confrontational talk-therapy approach. As the program attracts non-addicts and celebrity followers, Synanon grows into a social movement that rapidly expands across the country.
By the 1970s, Synanon boasts its own farm, a school, and multiple businesses, but Chuck’s utopian vision begins to crack. As members face more extreme edicts, including mandates to quit smoking, separate from their children, and shave their heads - many find themselves weighing the benefits and costs of the choices they’re forced to make.
As his behavior becomes increasingly belligerent and abusive, Chuck transforms Synanon’s school into a military-style bootcamp for delinquent children where corporal punishment abounds. Then, when his wife dies, Chuck quickly remarries and issues a new directive that members must divorce and find new partners - further complicating life for his most dedicated followers.
When the Los Angeles Times reports on Synanon’s nine-day alleged abduction of Frances Winn, Chuck begins stockpiling guns and ammunition – and is accused of conspiracy to commit murder. Later, Chuck’s failing mental and physical health leads to the beginning of the end, as many adherents struggle to piece their lives together in the aftermath.
About this Show
The Synanon Fix: Did The Cure Become a Cult?
Explore the rise and fall of the controversial treatment center – which drew criticism for cult-like behavior.
Starring: Jady Dederich MontgomeryMiriam BourdettePhil BourdetteElena BroslovskyMarshall Carder