The relationship between exposure to televised messages about paranormal phenomena and paranormal beliefs

Abstract

This paper seeks to continue exploration begun by Sparks, Hansen, and Shah (1994) into the possible relationship between exposure to media messages and paranormal beliefs. It reports the results of a random‐sample survey that revealed that exposure to particular programs that regularly depict paranormal activity is associated with an increased tendency to endorse paranormal beliefs. The fact that this association is found only for individuals who report no prior experience with paranormal phenomena may hold implications for cultivation theory's resonance hypothesis. Suggestions for future study in this area are recommended.