The term cult is usually negative connotation and stigma associated with its usage. Most cults are groups that are outside the mainstream of the prevailing, established religious tradition of any given society. Cult members view themselves as a minority group who share a common vision and who are dedicated to some person, ideology, or cause. Traditional churches are generally considered to be culture- accepting organizations where cults tend to avoid accommodation to the dominant social realities and are, in fact, culture rejecting. The degree to which they are separatist in orientation varies from group to group. They are often targets of suspicion and distrust. Typically, the person who joins a cult has a very nominal religious background or no religious background at all. The fulfilling of perceived spiritual needs is an obvious component in the decision to explore alternative religious options. Those individuals who are attracted to aberrational Christian groups frequently are young Christians lacking in discernment skills or the members who dissatisfied or disillusioned with their traditional church life. Cults appeal to persons who are experiencing a sense of personal inadequacy, loneliness, or disappointment with life in general. In the newer cultic movements as well as in the cult of the past there is always a single, living person(usually male) who is the founder/leader of the group. Almost without exception cult leaders are highly authoritarian and extract from their followers a loyalty and devotion. Cult critics claim that leaders use fear, intimidation, and guilt to control members`` lives. In extreme cases physical punishment is employed as a sanction and control mechanism. There are those who argue that cult leaders exhibit varying degrees of psycho- pathology, particularly paranoia. Leaving a cult is like leaving the bosom of a family. New friendships will have to be formed. Difficulties in decision making may be anticipated. The cult veteran as well as relatives and friends will need encouragement and assistance in handling the difficult postcult period. The Christian counselor should be especially sensitive to the possibility of spiritual burnout that frequently characterized the ex-member.