A recent study from Canada reveals that exposure to infrasound, sound frequencies below 20 hertz, can lead to increased irritability and elevated cortisol levels among individuals. Researchers conducted experiments with 36 volunteers, comparing their responses to those of control subjects who were not exposed to these low frequencies. The findings suggest that this imperceptible sound may contribute to feelings of unease often associated with allegedly haunted locations.
Senior study author Rodney Schmaltz, a psychology professor at MacEwan University, clarified that while infrasound may not directly cause beliefs in supernatural activity, it can create discomfort that some might interpret as paranormal. A YouGov poll from last October indicated that 60% of Americans believe they have encountered a paranormal event, with 35% citing sensations of an unknown presence.
This research aligns with ongoing investigations into how environmental factors like infrasound might influence perceptions of hauntings. Previous studies have explored similar themes, reinforcing the idea that not all reports of supernatural encounters can be dismissed as mere imagination.