Scientology Targets Youth in Recruitment Push

Church struggles to attract new members, focuses efforts on young people

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to reports, the Church of Scientology is struggling to recruit new members, especially among younger generations. However, the organization is making concerted efforts to target youth, posting 'success stories' of young people joining the church and undergoing its programs. Experts say this is a concerning trend as Scientology has a history of exploiting and indoctrinating minors.

Why it matters

Scientology's recruitment of children and teenagers is troubling, as the church has been accused of using coercive tactics and isolating young people from their families. This raises concerns about the mental and emotional well-being of vulnerable youth who may be drawn into the organization's belief system and practices.

The details

The reports indicate that Scientology is highlighting stories of young people, some as young as 15 years old, who have undergone the church's 'Survival Rundown' and other programs. These accounts claim the processes have dramatically improved the individuals' abilities and communication skills. However, critics argue that Scientology uses these 'success stories' to lure in more young recruits, often separating them from their families and subjecting them to the church's intense indoctrination methods.

  • Scientology has been posting these 'success stories' featuring youth recruits in recent months.

The players

Church of Scientology

A controversial religious organization founded by L. Ron Hubbard, which has been accused of using coercive tactics to recruit and retain members, including targeting vulnerable populations such as children and teenagers.

L. Ron Hubbard

The founder of the Church of Scientology, who developed the organization's belief system and practices.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must be vigilant in protecting young people from the manipulative tactics of Scientology. Their recruitment of minors is a serious concern that deserves close scrutiny.”

— Tony Ortega, Journalist (tonyortega.org)

The takeaway

Scientology's efforts to target youth for recruitment are a troubling development that highlights the organization's willingness to exploit vulnerable populations. This underscores the need for continued monitoring and scrutiny of Scientology's practices, as well as advocacy to protect young people from the church's coercive influence.