This paper was presented at the
National Seminar on
Indian Psychology: Theories and Models
SVYASA, Bangalore,
December 26 - 28, 2007
 

Influence of personality on religiosity and paranormal experiences

Jacksan Judan Fernandes & Sonali Bhatt Marwaha — Institute for Human Science & Service, Visakhapatnam

A personal belief is a cherished worldview against which one guides one’s life. Religion, as a system of beliefs, is ubiquitous. While religion is an acquired set of beliefs, paranormal or psi abilities are believed to be intrinsic, like other sensory processes, and may be influenced by intrinsic personality factors. The three components under study here are interlinked in the human condition, as inherent abilities and as socially influenced factors. In this paper we examine the role of personality on religiosity — as a socially influenced component, and psi abilities — as an inherent component. Using the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory, Religiosity Survey, and the Survey of Paranormal Experiences, the results based on data collected from 1800 participants reveal no significant relation between personality and religiosity, and a significant relation between extraversion and psi experiences.

Email the author, Mr. Jacksan John Fernandes, at jacksonjernandeo@gmail.com