A Mother's Shameful Past

Season 11 - Episode 196: A Mother's Shameful Past
Overview
Raylynn says in 1988, she was seduced by smooth-talking charmer Curly Thornton and joined his traveling evangelical group — which she says she now considers a cult — and although Curly died in 1999, Raylynn says she feels like he’s still haunting and controlling her. Raylynn says she became so wrapped up in Curly’s teachings, she gave up everything, including her car, her home and her job. She says she even moved her young daughter, Sunny, now 32, into Curly’s home and that shortly after, he changed from an inspirational leader to a fear-driven, mind-controlling abuser. How does Raylynn say she was seduced into what she calls a dark and manipulative world? What are the warning signs she may have missed? And, is she ready to let go of the guilt she says she’s been carrying around for years? Then, Sunny reveals a secret that she’s been keeping from her mom. Does she blame her mom for what happened to her? Plus, Curly’s son speaks out publicly about his father for the first time.
Episode Information
TV Show
Dr. Phil
Season
Season 11
Episode Number
196
Air Date
June 4, 2013
Runtime
60 minutes