International Cultic Studies Association

Information on cults, cultic groups, psychological manipulation, psychological abuse, spiritual abuse, brainwashing, mind control, thought reform, abusive churches, extremism, totalistic groups, new religious movements, alternative and mainstream religions, group dynamics, exit counseling, recovery, and practical suggestions for those affected by or interested in these subjects

Please see our new site, www.icsahome.com, which has new material and a more helpful structure.

Founded in 1979, the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) is a global network of people concerned about psychological manipulation and abuse in cultic groups, alternative movements, and other environments. ICSA is tax-exempt, supports civil liberties, and is not affiliated with any religious or commercial organizations.

ICSA's mission is to apply research and professional perspectives on cultic groups to educate the public and help those who have been harmed.  In order to fulfill this mission, ICSA provides:

• conferences, workshops, local meetings, and special lectures, seminars, and other events
• an e-library with more than 25,000 documents
• a variety of periodicals and publications
• personalized assistance
• perspectives on how to evaluate and use information to deal effectively with problems related to cultic and other groups
• support for cultic studies research
• opportunities to network with families, former members of cults or related groups, helping professionals, researchers, and others interested in the cultic studies field
• training and volunteer opportunities