The popularity of the paranormal

The popularity of paranormal research over the past several years has grown exponentially. Thanks in part to television shows such as: Ghost Hunters, Paranormal State and others, ghosts are in.

This surge in popularity has benefited the research community in many ways. The available instrumentation and paranormal detection equipment have become industry specific and are accessible from many sources. The entire industry has become mainstream and is no longer generally viewed as a collection of heretics, or soothsayers treading where they should not.
The absolute greatest benefit of widespread acceptance of the existence of the spirit world is that individuals whose lives are being affected by potential paranormal activity now feel that perhaps there is nothing wrong with them. They are now able to discuss the occurrences instead of hiding them for fear of ridicule. There now exists organizations who can help them to understand and cope with what is happening around them.

The downside of this surge is the proliferation of 'Ghost Hunter' wannabees, ill-informed thrill seekers and others with good intentions, but little focus and direction. Groups who trespass on private property, inundate owners of purportedly haunted sites and present hundreds of 'orb' photos as "evidence", dilute the efforts of serious-minded and organized groups.

Ultimately, this industry will settle down and the cream of the crop will rise to the top. Until then, my advice to anyone seeking help from a paranormal investigation group is this: 1. Check the background of the group carefully. Look at their websites. You can often gauge the group's level of professionalism from their web presence. 2. Interview them before they interview you. Develop questions that you feel are important to you. If they don't fit, don't use them. Remember, this is something affecting your life and who you choose to help you with that is a very important choice. 3. Shy away from any group which charges you for their service. A paranormal investigation provides a two-way benefit. The client benefits from an understanding of what they are experiencing and hopefully achieves a more peaceful feeling. The investigator benefits from the experience, drawing a better understanding of the paranormal and hopefully furthering the science. Finally, your experience with the paranormal may be a very private matter for you and your family. Look for a group that is sensitive to your needs for anonymity.
For us at Pasadena Paranormal, it is all about the healing. Our rewards come from the faces of those who have pushed the fear of the unknown aside and have taken back control of their lives.

David Schmincke - Co-Founder
pasadena paranormal