Although the general public believes that the cult problem is disappearing, the unethical psychological manipulation cults often practice continues to create serious problems for individuals and society.
Cults are a worldwide problem.
The violence caused by cults such as at Jonestown , Guyana, Waco , Texas, and by the Aum Shinrikyo group in Japan is very troubling. Experts estimate there are 3,000 to 5,000 active groups with six million present and past members. Cults have mainstreamed themselves, so they appeal to a broader population, from every background and age group. While they still target young people, they also recruit older, established, and more affluent people. Abuse of children and women in these groups is tragically common.