Brazil Study Finds 5,117 People Often Process Uncanny Experiences Positively
Updated
Updated · ScienceAlert · Aug 6
Brazil Study Finds 5,117 People Often Process Uncanny Experiences Positively
3 articles · Updated · ScienceAlert · Aug 6
Summary
A PLOS One study of 5,117 people in Brazil found nonordinary experiences were common and usually not linked to illness, with most respondents describing them as neutral or positive.
More than 60% said the event happened while awake and alert, nearly 40% were alone, and the most common frequency was two to three times for 38% of respondents.
Almost half reported joy or well-being during the experience, while less than a quarter felt suffering or discomfort; about half said it had positive effects on their lives afterward, versus under 15% negative effects.
Attribution was mixed: 36% said no one caused the experience, 16% pointed to a god or gods, and 41% said it happened by chance rather than as a sign or message.
The researchers said the work addresses a largely understudied area and could help reduce stigma, while urging people to seek professional help if such experiences disrupt daily life.