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Published on: August 26, 2011
Academic studies on claimed past-life memories: A scoping review
Lucam J Moraes1, Gabrielle S Barbosa1, João Pedro G B Castro1
1NUPES - Research Center in Spirituality and Health, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF). Av. Eugênio do Nascimento s/n, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.
Abstract:
This study reviews observational studies regarding alleged past-life memories published as scientific articles, and points out their bibliometric and methodological characteristics. Scientific databases were screened (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed/Medline, PsycINFO, Scielo, and OpenGrey). The 78 included studies were classified by their methodological and bibliometric characteristics. The peak of publications occurred from 1990 to 2010 (45%), and Asia was the most investigated territory (58 studies); most of investigations were related to children (84%) and case report was the predominant study design (60%). Interview was the predominant methodological approach (73%), followed by documental analysis (50%). Claimed past-life memories (100%), unusual behaviors (74%) and birthmarks/defects (37%) were the most investigated variables. Investigations of past-life memories should be encouraged around all cultures, and future studies should consider previous methodological features and try to overcome their limitations.
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