Question 1

What is Dianetics and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Dianetics is a self-help methodology developed by L. Ron Hubbard, first published in 1950. It proposes that the human mind has two parts: the analytical mind (rational and aware) and the reactive mind (which stores recordings of painful experiences called engrams). These engrams, when triggered by present-day stimuli, cause anxiety, depression, anger, psychosomatic illness, and irrational behaviour. Dianetics auditing — a structured process with a trained practitioner — aims to locate and erase these engrams, removing their influence on behaviour and health.

Question 2

Can Dianetics help with anxiety and depression in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Many South Africans report significant relief from anxiety and depression after applying Dianetics techniques. The methodology addresses the reactive mind — the source of irrational fear responses and depressive emotional patterns — through a process called auditing. The Hubbard Dianetics Foundation South Africa offers the Dianetics book (R400, free delivery) and professional auditing services for those seeking an alternative or complement to conventional treatment.

Question 3

Is Dianetics an alternative to antidepressants and psychotropic medication?

Accepted Answer

Dianetics is a self-improvement methodology, not a medical treatment, and does not replace medical care for diagnosed conditions. However, many practitioners and readers use it as an alternative or complement to psychotropic medication, particularly those concerned about long-term dependency on antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, or mood stabilisers. Dianetics addresses the underlying mental recordings (engrams) that may be contributing to emotional distress, rather than managing symptoms chemically.

Question 4

Can Dianetics help with anger issues and rage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In Dianetics theory, anger and rage are often traced to specific engrams — stored recordings from past incidents where pain and unconsciousness were present. When these engrams are triggered by present-day stimuli, they produce disproportionate anger responses. Dianetics auditing aims to locate and erase these recordings, reducing the intensity and frequency of anger responses. Many practitioners report lasting improvement in emotional regulation after auditing.

Question 5

Can Dianetics help with trauma and PTSD?

Accepted Answer

Dianetics was one of the first self-help methodologies to propose that traumatic incidents are stored as mental recordings (engrams) and continue to influence behaviour and health long after the original event. The auditing process involves guided recall and re-examination of these incidents, which practitioners report reduces their emotional charge and eliminates their ability to trigger PTSD-like responses. It is not a clinical PTSD treatment but is used by many as a self-directed recovery tool.

Question 6

Where can I buy the Dianetics book in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

The Dianetics book is available from the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation South Africa for R400 with free delivery anywhere in South Africa. Order online at hubbarddianeticsfoundation.co.za/order or contact us at info@hubbarddianeticsfoundation.co.za or +27 78 174 0997. The book is available in English and Afrikaans.

Question 7

What is the difference between Dianetics and Scientology?

Accepted Answer

Dianetics is a standalone self-help methodology published by L. Ron Hubbard in 1950. While Dianetics is used within Scientology, the book and its techniques can be applied completely independently. The Church of Scientology was established in 1954 — four years after Dianetics was published. The Hubbard Dianetics Foundation South Africa focuses exclusively on the Dianetics methodology and book distribution.

Question 8

Can Dianetics help with addiction and substance dependency?

Accepted Answer

Dianetics is used by many people in recovery from addiction as a tool for addressing the underlying emotional pain that drives substance use. The methodology proposes that addiction is often driven by engrams — stored recordings of pain and distress — that the person attempts to suppress through substances. Dianetics auditing aims to address these underlying recordings. It is not a medical detox programme and should be used alongside appropriate medical support for physical dependency.

Question 9

What is psychosomatic illness and how does Dianetics address it?

Accepted Answer

Psychosomatic illness refers to physical symptoms that originate in or are significantly influenced by mental or emotional factors. L. Ron Hubbard proposed in Dianetics that a significant proportion of human illness is psychosomatic — caused by engrams stored in the reactive mind. Common psychosomatic conditions addressed through Dianetics include chronic headaches, migraines, back pain without structural cause, fatigue, insomnia, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Dianetics auditing aims to locate and erase the underlying mental recordings causing these symptoms.

Question 10

Is Dianetics available in Afrikaans in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Dianetics book is available in both English and Afrikaans from the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation South Africa. The Afrikaans edition is titled 'Dianetika: Die Moderne Wetenskap van Geestelike Gesondheid.' Both editions are available for R400 with free delivery anywhere in South Africa.