American perceptions and personal experiences regarding coercive or cult-like groups

YouGov poll conducted in October 2025:

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2,232 U.S. adult citizens. 

The poll was conducted between October 2nd and October 6th, 2025, with a margin of error of ±2.7%.

• 32% of Americans report knowing someone who has joined a coercive or cult-like group. 

• 18% knowing an acquaintance, 
• 12% a friend, 
• 12% a family member, and 
• 3% who report having personally joined one.

• 45% of the public believes that coercive or cult-like groups are more common today than they were in the past.
• 32%: The average person is susceptible to recruitment.
• 53% of Americans view individuals who join coercive groups as victims of manipulation, whereas 
• 28% hold the individuals responsible for their own choices.

https://yougov.com/en-us/articles/53891-two-thirds-of-americans-think-the-average-person-is-susceptible-to-cult-recruitment