The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) is an interdisciplinary research and education foundation devoted to the study of cultic phenomena. It is based in the United States and is one of the largest professional organizations in this field. Current executive director is psychologist Michael Langone. It publishes the journal Cultic Studies Review.

History

In 1979 the American Family Foundation (AFF) was founded by Kay Barney, whose daughter had become involved with the Unification Church. In contrast to many other contemporary groups concerned with cults, Barney wanted to address the field professionally and scientifically and so founded AFF as a non-profit tax-exempt organisation for research and education. To avoid internal political debates, AFF did not have a membership base. It was directed by a Board of directors of which Barney was part.

1980/81 AFF joined forces

(to be continued)

Activities

ICSA maintains on the internet an electronic library with information on groups and issues regarding psychological manipulation and abuse. There is also an online archive offering abstracts of all articles of the Cultic Studies Review.

ICSA publishes the online scholarly journal Cultic Studies Review ().

There is also an information service for families, clergy, students, and professionals.

ICSA conducts annual conferences for professionals and workshops for families, former members and mental health professionals.

References

• Langone, Michael: History of the American Family Foundation, Cultic Studies Review 1/1, 2002