The uncanny: A biopsychosocial perspective

Abstract

Paranormal beliefs are exceedingly prevalent. Surveys from around the world have typically shown that 48%-67% of people believe in paranormal phenomena, with nearly 75% of Americans believing in at least one type of paranormal phenomenon, including demonic possession, extrasensory perception, haunted houses, ghosts, psychic healing, and reincarnation. Subjective paranormal experiences also appear to be quite common. These beliefs and experiences can be very meaningful, highly distressing, or both. Despite the prevalence of paranormal beliefs and experiences, mainstream psychologists rarely study such topics. When inquiries do occur, they are usually conducted by parapsychologists and labeled “pseudoscience.” In this article, the author uses a biopsychosocial model to provide a contemporary explanation of paranormal phenomena. From this perspective, paranormal beliefs and experiences are best understood by identifying biological, psychological, and sociocultural explanatory factors. Treatment recommendations are provided.