Scandals, Cult-Like Practices, and the Rise of the Joshua Generation Unveiled
The Duggar family, renowned for their reality TV shows, is once again in the spotlight as Amazon Prime releases its latest docuseries, “Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets.” The gripping series, which premiered on June 2, delves deep into the headline-making scandals surrounding the family and the controversial religious group they were associated with, the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP). Uncovering allegations of sex abuse, child abuse, and financial mistreatment, the docuseries features testimonies from family members like Jill Dillard, her husband Derick Dillard, and niece Amy King, along with several former IBLP members.
Behind the Scenes of 19 Kids and Counting:
Jim Bob Duggar’s reality TV stardom stemmed from his political career, having served as a Republican Arkansas state representative. Discovery Network executives took notice of his large family attending campaign events, and in 2004, the network began programming with the Duggars. Their shows, including “14 Children and Pregnant Again!,” “17 Kids and Counting,” and “19 Kids and Counting,” became major hits, offering viewers a glimpse into the seemingly cohesive and peaceful life of a family with 19 children. The Duggars’ shows rejuvenated the network, providing high viewership and returns with their low-cost production.
The Institute of Basic Life Principles and Its Founder, Bill Gothard:
The Duggars were devout followers of the Institute of Basic Life Principles (IBLP), a Christian organization described as cult-like by former members. IBLP, founded by fundamentalist Bill Gothard in 1961, emphasized strict gender norms and promoted practices such as modest clothing, homeschooling with Gothard’s curriculum, and disciplining children with spanking. Despite the organization’s prohibition of television, the Duggars became TV stars. Former members detail feeling undereducated, abused, and mistreated by IBLP teachings, highlighting the patriarchal and authoritarian nature of the group.
Daughter Jill Duggar on Abuse From Brother Josh Duggar:
Josh Duggar, the eldest child, gained public attention separately from his family. In 2015, a decade-old police report surfaced, stating that he had forcibly touched at least five girls, including his sisters Jill and Jessa. In an interview with Megyn Kelly, the sisters defended their brother. However, in the new documentary, Jill Duggar admits that she regrets participating in the interview and reveals that she and her siblings never received compensation for appearing in subsequent spin-off shows. Meanwhile, in May 2021, Josh Duggar was convicted on child pornography charges and is currently serving a 12-year sentence.
The Future of the Duggars, IBLP, and the Joshua Generation:
Despite the federal investigation into his son, Jim Bob Duggar continues to lead the IBLP. The organization’s homeschooling program, the Advanced Training Institute, concluded its enrollment option in 2021, although the teachings remain available online. The documentary highlights the emergence of the Joshua Generation, a political Christian youth group influenced by IBLP’s fundamentalist teachings. The group aims to position its members in influential government and legal roles. Former Congressman Madison Cawthorn has been associated with the Joshua Generation. Additionally, family members like Jill Duggar and former IBLP members are leveraging social media platforms to share their stories and break free from the control exerted by the organization.
Conclusion:
“Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets” uncovers the dark underbelly of the Duggar family’s reality TV fame, exposing the scandals surrounding them and the controversial IBLP. The docuseries provides a platform for former members to shed light on the alleged abuse and mistreatment within the organization. As the Duggars’ influence wanes and social media empowers individuals to share their stories, the legacy of the family and IBLP faces uncertain times. The documentary serves as a powerful testament to the strength of those who have broken free from a once seemingly unassailable institution.