The term "anti-cult movement" was coined as part of the controversy surrounding religious cults. Various groups frequenty accused of being cults often claim that they are being persecuted by a number of individuals, groups, and organizations that are specifically dedicated to eradicating them. These groups habe subsequently been labeled "anti-cult groups."

Opponents and critics of purported cults state that the term "anti-cult movement" is an attempt to create a grand conspiracy theory, which suggests that there is a vast, organized network of individuals and groups who are solely dedicated to wiping out these organizations solely because they are considered cults.

See also: Christian countercult movement