THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE PARANORMAL: Why We Believe In The Unexplained

Why do so many of us believe in things that go bump in the night?

In a world where science explains so much, between one-third and half of people in the US and UK still hold paranormal beliefs – from ghostly apparitions to psychic powers. But what drives this persistent fascination with the supernatural? Recent research offers some fascinating insights.

When our lives feel chaotic and unpredictable, paranormal beliefs provide a comforting framework. Studies have found that people who feel powerless or uncertain are more likely to embrace supernatural explanations. It’s how our brains are wired – when faced with events beyond our control, we desperately search for patterns and meaning.

Consider astrology – those celestial movements seemingly connected to our personal experiences provide a cosmic roadmap through life’s uncertainties. This psychological mechanism is similar to what draws people to conspiracy theories – both offer structured narratives that make random events seem intentional and purposeful.

Death anxiety plays a significant role too. The uncomfortable awareness of our mortality pushes us toward beliefs that suggest a higher power controlling human destiny. Stories of ghosts and communication with the dead allow us to maintain connections with lost loved ones, easing our fears of the unknown void.

Interestingly, not all paranormal beliefs affect us the same way. Research indicates that belief in external supernatural forces that control us (like gods or fate) is associated with distress, reflecting a lack of personal agency. Conversely, more personally-oriented spiritual beliefs like astrology or manifestation aren’t linked to increased stress levels – perhaps because they emphasize individual control and meaning-making.

Our perception itself plays tricks on us. Pattern recognition leads us to see faces in clouds or believe a streak of misfortune means we’re cursed. The “illusion of control” bias makes us think we can influence things beyond our reach – a tendency that extends into other areas like believing in unproven medical treatments.

Media and social influences further reinforce these beliefs. Horror films, paranormal TV shows, and social media platforms where supernatural experiences are shared create an environment where such ideas seem increasingly plausible. When everyone around you believes, it becomes easier to believe yourself.

Rather than dismissing paranormal believers as irrational, researchers now recognize these beliefs serve important psychological functions. They provide comfort and meaning in an uncertain world. A 2024 study even found paranormal beliefs were connected to a sense of meaning in life and weren’t necessarily associated with negative wellbeing.

Whether you’re a hardened skeptic or a true believer, one thing is certain – the human need for stability and comfort in an unpredictable universe is something we all share.

(Source: The Conversation)