Synanon

A drug rehabilitation program that transformed into a violent cult.


Founded in 1958 by Charles E. “Chuck” Dederich Sr., a recovering alcoholic, Synanon began as an innovative drug rehabilitation program in Santa Monica, California. The organization’s name was derived from the words “symposium” and “seminar,” reflecting its emphasis on group discussions and encounters. Dederich developed Synanon’s core principles after becoming dissatisfied with the approach of Alcoholics Anonymous, believing that a more confrontational form of group therapy could be more effective in treating addiction.

Initially, Synanon’s program was structured as a three-stage process aimed at reintegrating members into society. The stages emphasized community labor, working outside the community while living within it, and eventually living and working independently while maintaining a connection to Synanon through regular meetings. This novel approach to treating addiction garnered significant attention and support from celebrities, politicians, and mental health professionals.

Central to Synanon’s methodology was “The Game,” a form of attack therapy where participants would verbally confront each other about their character flaws and behaviors. These intense group sessions were believed to break down psychological defenses and promote personal growth. However, as the organization evolved, The Game became increasingly extreme, eventually morphing into a 72-hour version used to pressure members to conform to Dederich’s directives.

Throughout the 1960s, Synanon expanded rapidly, establishing residential facilities across California and beyond. The organization began to accept non-addicts, referred to as “lifestylers,” who sought personal growth and an alternative way of living. By the late 1960s, Synanon had evolved into an alternate society, adopting a “lifetime rehabilitation” philosophy. This marked a shift from rehabilitating drug addicts to a belief that they would never be fully capable of reintegration into society.

As Synanon’s focus shifted, it began to resemble a utopian commune or intentional community. The organization acquired substantial property holdings, including a large ranch in Marin County, California, and established various businesses to support its operations. These enterprises included advertising agencies, gas stations, and a lucrative distribution contract for promotional products.

In 1974, Synanon officially declared itself a religion, partly in response to increasing scrutiny from government agencies and the media. This strategic move provided the organization with tax-exempt status and additional legal protections. The group’s religious teachings blended elements of various faiths with Dederich’s own philosophy, emphasizing communal living, self-reliance, and personal transformation.

As Synanon’s power and influence grew, so did its notoriety for controversial practices and alleged criminal activities. The organization implemented strict rules governing behavior, relationships, and personal appearance. Members were required to shave their heads, and married couples were sometimes forced to swap partners or separate entirely. More extreme measures included mandatory vasectomies for men and coerced abortions for women, under the belief that it would create a utopian society free from the burdens of traditional family structures.

Synanon’s structure became increasingly hierarchical and authoritarian, with Dederich, often referred to as “The Founder,” exerting significant control over the organization and its members’ lives. The group maintained a heavily armed security force known as the “Imperial Marines” to maintain order. Former members began to speak out about harsh punishments, child abuse, and the use of intimidation tactics against critics and defectors.

Legal scrutiny of Synanon intensified in the 1960s and 1970s, focusing on its practices, unauthorized medical clinic, and tax issues. One of the most notorious incidents occurred in 1978 when two Synanon members placed a de-rattled rattlesnake in the mailbox of attorney Paul Morantz, who had successfully litigated against the organization. Morantz was bitten but survived the attack, which brought further scrutiny and legal action against Synanon.

By the late 1970s and early 1980s, Synanon faced mounting legal and financial troubles. Dederich was arrested in 1978 and pleaded no contest to charges related to the rattlesnake incident, receiving a suspended sentence but being removed from leadership of the organization. His health deteriorated, further weakening Synanon’s structure.

In 1991, the Internal Revenue Service revoked Synanon’s tax-exempt status, citing its lack of legitimate religious or charitable purpose and evidence of criminal activities. The organization was ordered to pay millions in back taxes. This financial blow, coupled with the ongoing legal challenges and declining public support, led to a sharp decrease in membership and resources.

As legal pressures mounted and public opinion turned against Synanon, the organization struggled to maintain its properties and businesses. Eventually, most of its assets were sold off to cover debts and legal fees. The once-thriving alternative community began to crumble, with many members leaving to reintegrate into mainstream society.

By the mid-1990s, Synanon had effectively ceased to exist as a functional entity. The organization officially dissolved in 1991, marking the end of its three-decade journey from an innovative drug rehabilitation program to a controversial alternative society. However, the impact of Synanon lingered long after its dissolution, with some former members continuing to practice aspects of its philosophy and lifestyle.