The analysis is based on published and unpublished materials disseminated by these groups that discuss the satanic ritual abuse of children as a social problem, dimensions of the satanic cult menace, organization of satanic cults, cult roles and rituals, the motivation of cult members, and satanic ritual abuse symptomatology in children and adults. The author concludes that the evidence is speculative and largely anecdotal, and fails to provide corroborative proof that the satanic ritual sexual abuse of children actually occurs. Nonetheless, the symbolic meaning of claims that satanic cults are abusing children in their rituals holds power as a demonologic metaphor for evil in Western society. A demonology allows people to target an enemy that can serve as a scapegoat for social fears, unites disparate interest group, and encourages concerted action that can restore a sense of security and control. In this case, law enforcement is taking a lead role in the moral crusade. 3 tables and 115 references