Helping families of cult members and ex-members of cults

Informing the public
about the cult phenomenon

 

The Edmonton Society Against Mind Abuse was founded in 1985. 

Our main objectives are:

• To help families of cult members and ex-members of cults.
  

• To inform the public about the cult phenomenon.
  

• To promote the study of the cult phenomenon.
  

We are registered with the Alberta Societies Act and are registered with the Canadian Federal Government as a non-profit, charitable organization.  We receive our funding from private fundraising, foundations and individuals.


Services Offered by the Edmonton Society Against Mind Abuse⁽¹⁹⁸⁵⁾:

• Supply information and emotional support to individuals and families
  

• 24-Hour Phone Line  Calls regularly checked and returned by volunteers.
  

• Promote public awareness of commercial, religious, psychotherapy, educational and political organizations that act to exploit individuals and groups within society.
  

• Conduct educational programs, workshops, seminars, conferences and public lectures to interested agencies such as schools, church groups and professional organizations, etc.
  

CULT -  A DEFINITION:

A cult is a highly manipulative group which exploits its members and can cause psychological, financial and physical harm.  It dictates, in an absolute manner, the behavior, thoughts and emotions of its followers.  Manipulation techniques are used to transform the new recruit into a loyal, obedient and subservient member.

Cults claim a special status, for themselves or their leader, that usually sets them in opposition to mainline society and/or the family.

Cults conceal their real nature and goals from prospective members by adopting deceptive behavior in order to attract new recruits.