Psychodynamic functions hypothesis (Irwin 1992) - states that belief in the paranormal is an unconscious coping mechanism enabling control of that which has become uncontrollable in life. [We may be talking, not only about repression as a defense mechanism, but also sublimation - negative energy put onto an object and displacement - negative energy is put onto a person.]
Perkins and Allen (2006) predicted that those reporting physical abuse in childhood would score highly for belief in those paranormal experiences associated with control e.g. psi, precognition and spiritualism (these are about, in some measure, controlling your future when you have failed to control your past) - but not with others such as belief in aliens.
Internal and external locus of control - Common sense says that those with an external locus of control would be more associated with paranormal belief/experience. However, there is contradictory evidence from studies about this:
Irwin (2005) said belief in the paranormal could stem from any childhood experience characterised by lack of control e.g. living with older siblings, authoritarian parents, moving house a lot, divorce
Watts et al (2007) tested students from Edinburgh uni on belief in paranormal, correlated against perceived childhood control; found a negative correlation
Comments
Report