Ritualistic abuse is perpetrated under the guise of a multitude of belief systems.
The belief system, itself, may even include tenets of non-violence. Almost any belief system can be implemented through force, coercion, or conditions of subterfuge. The symbols of Satanism are common within predominantly Judeo-Christian cultures as embodying the ideas of evil, therefore many people assume that Satanism is synonymous with ritualistic abuse. Survivors come from a multitude of backgrounds including all major religions, many tyranical political systems, militaristic indoctrination, as well as experimental systems of mind control.