IntroductionThe United States of America guaranteed religious freedom to all, regardless of beliefs or practices. Sectarian groups, however, are often victims of limited religious freedom simply because of the negative connotation that the word “cult” carries. As a society, we tend to label small religious groups as sects, with deviant beliefs and practices, far from traditional religions. With the word “cult” comes a plethora of negative, offensive, and often exaggerated stereotypes that lead to the unlawful treatment of these groups. That said, some sects' practices justify government intervention and require limiting religious freedom due to their violent nature. But where is this line drawn? As can be seen from the violent and suicidal practices of the Jonestown and Heaven's Gate cults, government intervention must be examined on a case-by-case basis in order to prevent the illegal violation of religious rights; Simply because a group exhibits violent behavior does not mean the government has the right to end its practices. What does sect mean? A sect, according to Webster's Dictionary, is “a small religious group that is not part of a larger group.” and a religion that is more accepted and has beliefs considered by many people to be extreme or dangerous” (Merriam-Webster). Rarely does one find a group or individual who considers himself to be a cult or a member of a cult. “Cult” is a term outsiders give to unpopular groups that deviate from traditional religious beliefs. Along with the label “cult” come numerous stereotypes, negative connotations, and preconceived notions. The article “'They are monsters!' The Cult Stereotype in Fictional Television Shows, 1958... half of the paper... Gate, one cannot be hasty in judging a deviant religious group and inhibiting its practices simply because they oppose traditional religious beliefs. While several groups engage in violent, harmful, and unintentional practices that justify government involvement, others possess practices that mainstream society may not agree with, but violation of their right to practice would be illegal. It is important to identify the difference between illegal and harmful practices and practices that challenge mainstream society before any efforts to inhibit sectarian groups take place. The term “cult” carries with it immense stereotypes and negative connotations which often result in the rapid violation of the religious rights of these groups. Therefore, it is crucial to objectively address each group's situations in order to avoid illegal discrimination against any group.