An investigation into alleged 'hauntings'

In summary, the British Journal of Psychology published two studies exploring the psychological mechanisms behind alleged hauntings. The experiments took place at two reputedly haunted locations and found a high number of unusual experiences reported in these areas. However, these experiences were not necessarily evidence of "ghostly" activity, but rather a response to environmental factors such as magnetic fields and lighting levels. The full paper is available for purchase, but can also be found for free online.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
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Authors: Wiseman R.1; Watt C.2; Stevens P.2; Greening E.1; O'Keeffe C.1
Source: British Journal of Psychology, 1 May 2003, vol. 94, no. 2, pp. 195-211(17)
Publisher: British Psychological Society

In cases of alleged hauntings, a large number of seemingly trustworthy witnesses consistently report experiencing unusual phenomena (e.g. apparitions, sudden changes in temperature, a strong sense of presence) in certain locations. The two studies reported here explored the psychological mechanisms that underlie this apparent evidence of 'ghostly' activity. The experiments took place at two locations that have a considerable reputation for being haunted—Hampton Court Palace (Surrey, England) and the South Bridge Vaults (Edinburgh, Scotland). Both studies involved participants walking around these locations and reporting where they experienced unusual phenomena. Results revealed significantly more reports of unusual experiences in areas that had a reputation for being haunted. This effect was not related to participants' prior knowledge about the reputation of these areas. However, the location of participants' experiences correlated significantly with various environmental factors, including, for example, the variance of local magnetic fields and lighting levels. These findings strongly suggest that alleged hauntings may not necessarily represent evidence for 'ghostly' activity, but could be, at least in part, the result of people responding to 'normal' factors in their surroundings.
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/searching/Expand?pub=infobike://bpsoc/bjp/2003/00000094/00000002/art00004

Purchase required.
 
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  • #2
I read this when we were discussing low frequency. The entire paper is available free online, but I'm wondering if Ingenta is charging for it, perhaps I shouldn't give out the URL's where it is free?
 
  • #3
Course you should, give us the link :smile:
 
  • #4
Sometimes knowing is enough. :biggrin:
 
  • #5
Doc Brown said:
Course you should, give us the link :smile:
You're an evil influence. :wink:

If one knows how to google, they'll find it easily.
 

1. What is the purpose of the investigation into alleged 'hauntings'?

The purpose of the investigation is to gather evidence and conduct thorough research in order to determine whether there is any validity to claims of paranormal activity in a given location.

2. Who conducts the investigation into alleged 'hauntings'?

The investigation is typically conducted by a team of trained and experienced paranormal investigators, including scientists, researchers, and psychics.

3. What methods are used in the investigation of alleged 'hauntings'?

The methods used may vary depending on the investigators, but some common techniques include using scientific instruments such as EMF detectors, digital voice recorders, and thermal cameras. Investigators may also conduct interviews, perform historical research, and use their own senses and intuition.

4. How long does an investigation into alleged 'hauntings' typically take?

The length of an investigation can vary greatly depending on the location and the amount of evidence gathered. Some investigations may last a few hours, while others may span multiple days or even weeks.

5. Is the evidence gathered during an investigation considered conclusive proof of paranormal activity?

No, the evidence gathered during an investigation is not considered conclusive proof of paranormal activity. It is simply used to support or refute claims of hauntings and help investigators come to a conclusion based on their findings.

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