Contextual mediation of perceptions in hauntings and poltergeist-like experiences

Author(s): Houran, J., Harte, T. M., Havens, R. A.

Journal/Book: Percept Mot Skills. 1996; 82: PO Box 9229, Missoula, MT 59807. Perceptual Motor Skills. 755-762.

Abstract: The content of perceived apparitions, e.g., bereavement hallucinations, cannot be explained entirely in terms of electromagnetically induced neurochemical processes. It was shown that contextual variables influential in hallucinatory and hypnotic states also structured reported haunting experiences. As predicted, high congruency was found between the experiential content and the nature of the contextual variables. Further, the number of contextual variables involved in an experience was related to the type of experience and the state or arousal preceding the experience. Based on these findings we argue that a more complete explanation of haunting experiences should rake into account both electromagnetically induced neurochemical processes and factors related to contextual mediation.

Note: Article R Lange, Univ Illinois, Psychol Program G11, Springfield, IL 62794 USA

Keyword(s): GEOMAGNETIC-ACTIVITY; LOBE

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