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The self-attribution bias and paranormal beliefs
1Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Brain and Cognition Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Consciousness and Cognition
|February 26, 2017
Summary
Paranormal believers exhibit a stronger self-attribution bias, attributing positive outcomes to themselves more than skeptics. This cognitive bias is linked to religious beliefs and superstition, shaped by upbringing and childhood experiences.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Parapsychology
Background:
- Paranormal beliefs are widespread and may be associated with cognitive biases.
- Understanding the interplay between beliefs, biases, and socio-cultural factors is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between paranormal beliefs, illusory control, and self-attribution bias.
- To explore the influence of socio-cultural factors on paranormal beliefs.
Main Methods:
- Participants (visitors at a psychic fair) played a card guessing game.
- Perceived control was measured based on card congruency and valence.
- Self-report measures assessed paranormal beliefs, religious beliefs, superstition, and childhood experiences.
Main Results:
- Paranormal believers showed a stronger self-attribution bias than skeptics.
- The self-attribution bias was correlated with traditional religious beliefs and superstition.
- No significant association was found between paranormal beliefs and illusory control.
- Paranormal beliefs were linked to spiritual upbringing and childhood anomalous experiences.
Conclusions:
- Paranormal beliefs are associated with specific cognitive biases, particularly the self-attribution bias.
- These cognitive biases appear to be influenced by socio-cultural factors and early life experiences.
- The findings suggest a complex interplay between belief systems, cognitive processes, and environmental influences.
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