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The cold reading technique.

D L Dutton1

  • 1School of Fine Arts, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.

Experientia
|April 15, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Belief in paranormal phenomena often stems from personal encounters with psychics, utilizing cold reading techniques. This method relies on the Barnum effect, where generalized statements appear uniquely personal, creating an illusion of psychic ability.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Parapsychology

Background:

  • Personal experiences with astrologers, palm readers, and spirit mediums often fuel belief in the paranormal.
  • These encounters frequently employ 'cold reading' techniques, creating an illusion of psychic ability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the psychological mechanisms behind cold reading.
  • To critically review research on the Barnum effect and its role in paranormal belief.
  • To examine the application of cold reading by professional magicians and spirit mediums.

Main Methods:

  • Review of psychological research on the Barnum effect.
  • Analysis of cold reading performances by a spirit medium.
  • Description of cold reading techniques used by a professional magician.

Main Results:

  • Cold reading relies heavily on the Barnum effect, where individuals perceive general personality descriptions as uniquely applicable to themselves.
  • The process involves calculated guesses and elaborations based on client reactions, fostering a sense of personalized insight.
  • The study details specific cold reading tactics used by both magicians and a spirit medium.

Conclusions:

  • The illusion of paranormal ability in cold reading is primarily a psychological phenomenon rooted in the Barnum effect.
  • Further research is recommended to explore the extent to which practitioners may self-deceive about their own psychic capacities.

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