Perceived electrosensitivity and magical ideation.
We report, in 40 healthy right-handed men, an association between perceived sensitivity to weak electromagnetic fields and scores on the Magical Ideation scale, assessing experience of and beliefs in forms of causation that are nonexistent according to current scientific standards (r = .48, p =.002). Based on our previous research, we interpret this finding as reflecting human subjects' propensity to assume connections between own organismic state and (objectively unrelated) environmental variables. We emphasize, however, the need for studies which directly assess accuracy in detection of electromagnetic fields as a function of self-rated electrosensitivity.
Stöckenius
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Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland. pbrugger@npsy.unizh.ch
Brugger
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D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D007839:Functional Laterality / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008273:Magic; D008297:Male; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology; D010555:Personality Inventory / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires