alt Hacker News> where you can expect a modicum, possibly even a seeming profusion, of welcome. This is their hook.
Do you think that, possibly, they're really just happy to see you?
Replies
diyseguy • 01/15/2026
Sure, the way cult members are happy to greet new recruits. It's very insincere. If you have a real issue and you want to talk to someone - you are very likely to hear something like: "Well, pray to Jesus dear, only he can help you." In other words, if you actually need any support - go home and pray about it - don't expect real connection with people. The only connection comes through the imaginary friends they encourage you to divert all your attention and problems to...
➕ show 1 reply
It's called "Love Bombing" and it's almost always a precursor to abuse and/or exploitation.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Love_bombing