Outline what a cult is and what factors to be aware of when investigating cult activities

What will be an ideal response?


A cult is a system of religious beliefs and rituals. It also refers to those who practice such beliefs. Most cults involve some form of worship and followers dedicated to the concepts promoted by the leader. Cults range in size from a few followers to worldwide organizations directed by a complex chain of command. A number of factors may lead an individual to occult involvement, including family alienation, insecurity and a quest for personal power, unfulfilled ambitions, a spiritual search for answers, idealism, nonconformity, adolescent rebellion, a desire for adventure and excitement, a need for attention and recognition, and a need to escape reality or the circumstances of his or her own birth.

Criminal Justice

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