A cult is an organized group whose purpose is to dominate cult members through psychological manipulation and pressure strategies.1 Cults are usually headed by a powerful leader who isolates members from the rest of society.

According to the Cult Education Institute, there are specific warning signs to look out for when considering whether a group might be a cult. Cults are characterized by:2
Cult Education Institute. Warning signs.

Absolute authoritarianism without accountability

Zero tolerance for criticism or questions

Lack of meaningful financial disclosure regarding budget

Unreasonable fears about the outside world that often involve evil conspiracies and persecutions

A belief that former followers are always wrong for leaving and there is never a legitimate reason for anyone else to leave

Abuse of members

Records, books, articles, or programs documenting the abuses of the leader or group

Followers feeling they are never able to be “good enough”

A belief that the leader is right at all times

A belief that the leader is the exclusive means of knowing “truth” or giving validation