Development of the Paranormal and Supernatural Beliefs Scale using classical and modern test theory
How do you measure a belief in the impossible?
Researchers built a better thermometer for measuring beliefs in supernatural phenomena.
In 2021, psychologists including noted skeptic Richard Wiseman set out to solve a measurement problem: existing surveys of paranormal beliefs weren't precise enough to capture subtle differences between casual curiosity and deep conviction. Using advanced statistical methods, they aimed to create a tool that could reliably distinguish between someone who slightly entertains the possibility of psychokinesis and someone who firmly believes they can move objects with their thoughts.
Key Findings
- The Rasch version of the scale worked best—it could tell the difference between someone with moderate paranormal beliefs and someone with strong beliefs.
- Statistical checks confirmed the scale measures what it claims to measure, rather than accidentally capturing something else like general superstition or magical thinking.
What Is This About?
The team created a new questionnaire called the Paranormal and Supernatural Beliefs Scale. They then tested it using two different mathematical frameworks: classical test theory (the traditional way psychologists check if questions work) and modern Rasch analysis (a sophisticated method ensuring each question contributes meaningfully to the overall score). They specifically examined whether the scale could detect differences among people who already believe in the paranormal, rather than just distinguishing believers from non-believers.
Development and validation of a psychological scale measuring paranormal and supernatural beliefs using classical test theory and Rasch analysis (modern test theory).
The Rasch version of the scale demonstrated superior ability to differentiate moderate-to-high levels of paranormal belief and showed validity through differential item functioning analysis.
How Good Is the Evidence?
Supporters of parapsychology argue that rigorous measurement tools like this help legitimize the field by bringing scientific precision to the study of anomalous experiences. Skeptics counter that no matter how well you measure belief, you're still only measuring subjective opinions, not objective reality—and that such scales might inadvertently pathologize normal human curiosity about unexplained phenomena.
Mainstream: Psychometric scale development is standard practice in psychology to ensure questionnaires actually measure what they intend to measure. Moderate: Precise measurement of paranormal beliefs helps researchers understand the cognitive and personality factors associated with supernatural thinking. Frontier: Understanding the structure of belief could reveal whether anomalous experiences represent a distinct psychological category or lie on a continuum with normal perception.
Many people think believing in the paranormal is simply yes or no—you either do or don't. This study reveals that belief exists on a spectrum, and some people hold these beliefs much more intensely than others, which matters for understanding how such beliefs influence behavior and decision-making.
To establish this as the 'gold standard' measure, independent research teams would need to replicate these validation results across different cultures and languages, and show that scores on this scale actually predict real-world behavior related to paranormal claims (such as willingness to participate in psi experiments). Currently, the study establishes initial validity but awaits cross-cultural replication.
The Rasch scale was found to be most effective at differentiating between individuals with moderate-high levels of paranormal beliefs, and differential item functioning analysis indicated that the Rasch Scale represents a valid measure of belief in paranormal phenomena.
Stance: Mixed
What Does It Mean?
It's like the difference between a basic light switch (on/off) and a dimmer switch (infinite gradations). Old surveys treated paranormal belief as yes/no, but this scale captures the 'shades of gray' between curiosity and conviction.
Not all questionnaires are created equal—psychometric validation checks whether a scale actually measures what it claims, just as you would check a scale with a known weight before trusting your bathroom measurements.
Understanding Terms
What This Study Claims
Findings
Differential item functioning analysis indicates the Rasch Scale represents a valid measure of belief in paranormal phenomena.
moderateThe Rasch scale was most effective at differentiating between individuals with moderate-high levels of paranormal beliefs.
moderateMethodology
The study developed the Paranormal and Supernatural Beliefs Scale using both classical and modern test theory approaches.
strongThis summary is for general information about current research. It does not constitute medical advice. The scientific interpretation of these results is debated among researchers. If personally affected, please consult qualified professionals.