Research & Academia
Advancing understanding through
academic rigor
At ICSA, research is a foundational pillar of our work. We believe that deep, rigorous inquiry is essential to advancing public understanding of high-control groups, coercive influence, and the complex psychological, social, and cultural dynamics at play. Through scholarly engagement, we seek not only to document and analyze these phenomena, but also to influence how society responds—legally, therapeutically, and culturally.
Addressing a critical
research gap
Despite the far-reaching impacts of coercive and high-control environments, research in this field remains limited and underfunded. Historically, studies of cults, coercive control, and undue influence have lacked consistent institutional support and visibility. This has led to a scarcity of reliable data, theoretical development, and interdisciplinary collaboration—obstacles that continue to hinder progress.
ICSA is working to fill this gap. By supporting and promoting rigorous academic inquiry, we aim to strengthen the foundation of this field and ensure that future policies, interventions, and public education efforts are grounded in evidence rather than sensationalism.
Bridging theory and practice
Our approach is both interdisciplinary and translational. We support scholars and practitioners across psychology, sociology, law, education, religious studies, and more. Through conferences and collaborative projects, we connect researchers with survivors, legal experts, mental health professionals, and policymakers—ensuring that knowledge leads to real-world impact.
our academic journal
The International Journal of Coercion, Abuse, and Manipulation (IJCAM)
IJCAM is ICSA’s peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal dedicated to the study of coercive control, cultic dynamics, psychological abuse, and related areas. It serves as a critical platform for advancing research, encouraging dialogue, and elevating scholarly voices in a field that has long been overlooked.
The journal publishes empirical research, theoretical analyses, literature reviews, and case studies from diverse academic and clinical perspectives.
We welcome contributions from scholars, clinicians, researchers, and individuals with relevant lived experience who wish to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
Explore IJCAM
About our peer review process
Publish with us
Key research areas
ICSA and IJCAM support research that explores the dynamics, impacts, and ethical implications of coercion, abuse, and manipulation across a wide range of interpersonal and systemic contexts, including:.
High-control groups and cultic systems
Professional and institutional misuse of power
Psychological abuse and interpersonal coercion
Legal frameworks, human rights, and public policy
Human trafficking and exploitation
Recovery, resilience, and post-exit identity reconstruction
Radicalization and extremist movements
Events & Seminars
Connect and collaborate
ICSA Research Network Seminars
The ICSA Research Network hosts monthly online seminars for researchers and those exploring topics related to coercive influence and high-control environments. These sessions bring together a diverse international community in a respectful, collaborative space.
To join the mailing list or propose a topic, contact Rod Dubrow-Marshall, Chair of the Research Network.
Calls for research participation
ICSA’s online library offers free access to academic articles, survivor narratives, conference talks, webinars, and curated resources for anyone seeking to understand high-control groups and coercive dynamics.
MAKE AN IMPACT
Want to partner with us?
ICSA is actively seeking strategic partnerships with universities and academic research centers that share our commitment to advancing understanding in this complex and under-researched field.
We believe in the value of mutual exchange—collaborating with academic partners to share resources, insight, and nuanced expertise. By working together, we can strengthen the quality and visibility of research on coercive control and cultic dynamics, foster interdisciplinary dialogue, and open new avenues for joint publications, postgraduate research, and external funding.
These partnerships are an opportunity to help shape a growing field of inquiry with real-world impact. We invite institutions, departments, and individual scholars to connect with us and explore how we can support each other’s goals through meaningful collaboration.