Followers work long, exhausting hours either recruiting or raising money for the group. They often must contribute large sums of money to the group, which generally goes to the group or its leaders, and not to im- prove the world, as they claim. If the family is inside the cult, they weaken or destroy the family and love ties so that affection and loyalty go to the leaders and the group. Members, especially women and children, may be psychologically, physically or sexually abused. Leaders can skillfully manipulate the followers through sexual humiliation and general fear.
Some groups are heavily armed and train their members, even small children, to use weapons.
Thus cults often break many laws. They're concerned about occult groups and groups practicing Satanic rituals. These rituals include animal mutila- tions and sacrifices. Some bright and creative young teens are attracted to Satanic rituals they believe will give them power over their own lives and over others. There have been teen suicides and parental killings as a result of such involvement.