How to Become a Parapsychologist

A parapsychologist should be ready for intensive study, not just parlor tricks.

Far from being a simple pastime for amateur ghost hunters, parapsychology encompasses a much wider study of as yet unexplainable events or abilities. In "An Introduction to Parapsychology," Harvey J. Irwin terms this field of interest as "the scientific study of experiences which, if they are as they seem to be, are in principle outside the realm of human capabilities as presently conceived by conventional scientists." Parapsychology is sometimes erroneously linked with the paranormal. It is instead a study of strange events connected specifically to humanity: survival, ESP and interactions of mind and matter. Following this career path professionally involves more than a basic curiosity regarding the unknown.

Instructions

1. Research the subject matter in detail. Familiarize yourself with the numerous subjects parapsychology encompasses using books, articles and online resources. Include telepathy, reincarnation, precognition, clairvoyance and all other subject matter you can find on the unexplained aspects of the human experience. Make note of any areas you are particularly interested in and may want to focus on in the future.

2. Get an education. Students can either go to a university with specialized courses or get an advanced degree in a connected field such as psychology or physics, and use that as a jumping point to include the study of parapsychology. Schools with programs centered specifically on parapsychology are not very common.

3. Find people who claim to have had near-death or out-of-body experiences, ESP, clairvoyance and similar occurrences. Study them and document their experiences. Learn how these people are affected by their abilities, and how they relate to the rest of the world.

4. Practice these abilities on your own. Seek out others who are looking to experience the unknown. Developing abilities or experiencing unexplainable events imbue you with the practical knowledge to improve the quality of your career path. Take some ESP tests or seek out a local ghost-hunting group and join them for a night.

5. Document as many experiences as you can. Keep records, books or blogs of your education, personal events and research, contact with interested individuals and insights on parapsychology and your specific areas of interest. Use this information to open dialogue and make connections with others in the field.

References

• Pflyceum: Lyceum Home
• Parapsychological Association: Frequenty Asked Questions

Resources

• University Education in Parapsychology
• Getting Started in Parapsychology
• Parapsychology Foundation
• Psychic Science: Advanced ESP Test