Margaret Singer

Margaret Thaler Singer (July 29, 1921 – November 23, 2003) was an American clinical psychologist and researcher known for her work on family communication with her colleague Lyman Wynne. She made significant contributions to the study of schizophrenia, family therapy, brainwashing, and coercive persuasion. Singer's research in the 1960s focused on social and religious group influence and mind control, and she served as a board member of the American Family Foundation and an advisory board member of the Cult Awareness Network. She co-authored the book 'Cults in Our Midst.' Born in Denver, Colorado, Singer's parents were Margaret McDonough Thaler and Raymond Willard Thaler. Her father worked as the chief operating engineer at the US Mint.