We’ve all either been in them, heard about them or witnessed them – relationships when one person controls and changes someone else, usually for their own personal gain.

That’s common manipulation. It happens in business and in families. In a religious context, it can be particularly dangerous.

Fringe religious groups like the Moonies and the Hare Krishnas became known for manipulative techniques in the 1960s and 70s. Another group also known for allegations of wielding destructive control over its members was the Children of God, now known as The Family International.

An interesting event in Tucson tonight – Sunday Nov. 11 – will explore the history of the Children of God, air a documentary about a local murder-suicide involving the group, and have a roster of speakers including an ex-member who will talk about rampant sexual abuse in the group due to a “free love” doctrine.

The Screening Room is at 127 E. Congress St. The event begins at 5 p.m. and admission is $25 at the door, half price for students. It’s a fundraiser to help children who are in abusive religious groups.

Author Don Lattin, a former religion writer for the San Francisco Chronicle, will talk about his book “Jesus Freaks,” which is about The Family. Lattin said his book is a cautionary tale about what can go wrong when people have blind faith in a prophet who professes to speak for God.

Jesus Freaks also raises questions about where to draw the line between religious indoctrination and brainwashing, particularly where children are concerned.