ABSTRACT
There is an enormous amount of research and writing on groups known variously as 'cults', 'new religious movements', 'charismatic groups', to name some of the most commonly used terms during last 10 years. Rochford's reflections research on the Hare Krishna group highlight the difficulties of long-term participant observation. Rochford's role in the group evolved over the seven years of his research. This status enabled him to research International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) communities in other parts of the country. Rochford emphasized his five years' involvement, his interest both sociologically and spiritually, and his involvement in the community school and the "bhakta" program for newcomers. Stigma contests over what is acceptable behavior continue to be fought by cults. The fact of stigma contests can influence researchers' gaining and maintaining of access, their analysis of research, and their perceived credibility.
