New research conducted by the University of Delaware found that increased consumption of video-centric social media leads to a stronger belief in the paranormal.
The study examined the most popular YouTube videos about UFOs and ghosts, among other paranormal-related phenomena, to see what messages existed. Most videos contained alleged footage of paranormal activity but weren't supported by scientific or government sources.
UD Communications professor Paul Brewer led the study, which he hoped would yield results on how the media can shape our belief systems.
"Polling over the years has shown that a substantial percentage of the public says that they believe in paranormal phenomena like UFOs and ghosts and to a lesser extent, things like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster,” Brewer said. “So, that raises the question: What shapes these beliefs? Where do members of the public get these ideas, these viewpoints? Can media messages help shape these beliefs?"
The study found that YouTube use is indeed linked to believing in the paranormal and Brewer says the platform and others are the perfect avenue for paranormal believers.
"If you are looking for messages, videos out there that are going to reinforce believing in these phenomena, there's a lot out there on YouTube that would reinforce your beliefs," Brewer said. "There's a lot out there on TikTok, too, that would reinforce your beliefs. So, if people go looking for this content, they will find it."
Brewer adds that watching paranormal-themed documentaries is also connected to believing in the paranormal, but that could be similar to the chicken or the egg theory.