Negative connotations and marginalization in the labeling of new religious movements

Historically, new religious movements have been stigmatized with negative connotations such as brainwashing, unorthodox beliefs, and being labeled as 'cults'. These groups have faced criticism for their unique sexual practices, financial practices, and for being labeled as unorthodox and removed from mainstream Christianity. The term 'cult' has been used as a way to distance and marginalize these groups, with some scholars defining a cult as 'a religion I don't like', reflecting the negative connotations associated with it.