What is the BITE model?

The BITE model is a conceptual framework developed by Steven Hassan, who initially formulated it after his experiences with and departure from the Moonies cult. It serves as an analytical tool for understanding mind control techniques employed by authoritarian and cult-like groups. The acronym BITE stands for Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional control, each representing different methods of control:

1. Behavior Control: Manipulating the physical realities of followers, including where they live, how they dress, their diet, and adherence to group schedules.
2. Information Control: Controlling access to information, including censorship of external information and misleading followers through deception.
3. Thought Control: Instituting internal controls that align followers’ thought processes with the group's goals, promoting black-and-white thinking and group-sanctioned narratives.
4. Emotional Control: Leveraging emotional responses to enforce loyalty and obedience, often through guilt, fear, and love-bombing.

Steven Hassan emphasizes the essential element of information control, highlighting tactics like outright lying, withholding vital information, and distortion to manipulate followers. The BITE model has been scientifically validated through Hassan’s doctoral research and is utilized as a practical instrument in studying authoritarian control forms 1 2.