Study Reveals Link Between Traditional Paranormal Beliefs and Increased Stress
Ghost/Paranormal
Today (11 hours ago)
3 minute read.
A recent study examining the connection between paranormal beliefs and stress levels has uncovered striking differences between Traditional Paranormal Belief (TPB) and New Age Philosophy (NAP). The research, conducted by Neil Dagnall of Manchester Metropolitan University and Andrew Denovan of Liverpool John Moores University, analysed responses from 3,084 UK residents aged 18 and over. The findings, published in PLOS ONE, suggest that TPB is linked to greater distress and lower coping ability, while NAP appears unrelated to stress levels.
Paranormal beliefs remain widespread in society, influencing behaviour, attitudes, and even perceptions of science. Historically, such beliefs have been associated with maladaptive psychological processes, but recent studies indicate they do not necessarily harm well-being unless combined with other factors like high transliminality (heightened sensitivity to stimuli) or traits such as schizotypy.
The research highlights fundamental differences between the two belief systems. TPB is deeply rooted in cultural and social traditions that attribute control to external supernatural forces, such as spirits or fate. In times of collective uncertainty, these beliefs can offer comfort but may also lead to greater stress due to a perceived lack of control over external circumstances.
On the other hand, NAP is based on individual spiritual practices, including meditation and the concept of positive energy. This belief system suggests that control lies within the individual, potentially leading to a more stable psychological state.
According to the study, TPB’s association with distress likely stems from its tendency to reflect diminished personal control. As Neil Dagnall explains, “these results suggest that TPB may reflect a reduced perception of control over external factors, which can increase susceptibility to stress, whereas NAP, due to its focus on more individual issues, does not appear to contribute to these dynamics.”
The findings indicate that while TPB is not a direct cause of stress, its connection to reduced control may increase distress levels. However, in some cases, TPB could serve an adaptive function by offering a coping mechanism during difficult times. As the researchers note, “TPB is not causally related to distress. Rather, the relationship is more nuanced, and in some contexts reduced control may associate positively with TPB, with TPB consequently serving an adaptive function such as facilitating coping.”
Understanding how different types of paranormal beliefs influence stress levels is crucial in addressing their psychological impact. While NAP may provide personal empowerment without adverse effects, TPB could contribute to stress if it reinforces a sense of powerlessness. Dagnall stresses the importance of further research, stating, “understanding the functional differences between these beliefs is essential to addressing the psychological impact of belief in the paranormal.”
The study was supported by the BIAL Foundation and provides valuable insights into the psychological dimensions of paranormal beliefs. As society continues to navigate an era of uncertainty, these findings may help psychologists and mental health professionals better understand the complex relationship between belief systems and stress management.
Paranormal beliefs remain widespread in society, influencing behaviour, attitudes, and even perceptions of science. Historically, such beliefs have been associated with maladaptive psychological processes, but recent studies indicate they do not necessarily harm well-being unless combined with other factors like high transliminality (heightened sensitivity to stimuli) or traits such as schizotypy.
The research highlights fundamental differences between the two belief systems. TPB is deeply rooted in cultural and social traditions that attribute control to external supernatural forces, such as spirits or fate. In times of collective uncertainty, these beliefs can offer comfort but may also lead to greater stress due to a perceived lack of control over external circumstances.
On the other hand, NAP is based on individual spiritual practices, including meditation and the concept of positive energy. This belief system suggests that control lies within the individual, potentially leading to a more stable psychological state.
According to the study, TPB’s association with distress likely stems from its tendency to reflect diminished personal control. As Neil Dagnall explains, “these results suggest that TPB may reflect a reduced perception of control over external factors, which can increase susceptibility to stress, whereas NAP, due to its focus on more individual issues, does not appear to contribute to these dynamics.”
The findings indicate that while TPB is not a direct cause of stress, its connection to reduced control may increase distress levels. However, in some cases, TPB could serve an adaptive function by offering a coping mechanism during difficult times. As the researchers note, “TPB is not causally related to distress. Rather, the relationship is more nuanced, and in some contexts reduced control may associate positively with TPB, with TPB consequently serving an adaptive function such as facilitating coping.”
Understanding how different types of paranormal beliefs influence stress levels is crucial in addressing their psychological impact. While NAP may provide personal empowerment without adverse effects, TPB could contribute to stress if it reinforces a sense of powerlessness. Dagnall stresses the importance of further research, stating, “understanding the functional differences between these beliefs is essential to addressing the psychological impact of belief in the paranormal.”
The study was supported by the BIAL Foundation and provides valuable insights into the psychological dimensions of paranormal beliefs. As society continues to navigate an era of uncertainty, these findings may help psychologists and mental health professionals better understand the complex relationship between belief systems and stress management.
