FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about hauntings, ghosts and the paranormal in general. Included are some FAQ's about us as well. Click the links at the bottom for more detailed information. If you have more specific questions, contact us here.
For FAQ's regarding other issues, please visit the Site FAQ Page here.
Some FAQ's about the paranormal
What are ghosts?
Well, depending on who you ask, you'll get different responses to this question. There's the definition for ghosts given by Webster's Dictionary. There's the general broad term used by people who are not well educated in the field. There's many different definitions. To us, a ghost is the energy, spirit, or soul of a person who has passed away and is either stuck between the planes of existence, unable to cross over, or have chosen to stay on our level of existence by choice.
What are apparitions?
Apparitions is another term that is somewhat used loosely. Basically, an apparition is the visual appearance or manifestation of a spirit or any unusual visual phenomena that does not necessarily take the shape of a human form. An apparition can be that of a ghost that has manifested or it can also be a negative entity, or demon. Apparitions can also be in the form of animals. They can appear as white, whispy, cloudly shapes or a dark shadowy form.
What is an EVP?
An EVP is short for Electronic Voice Phenomenon. EVP is the ability to record spirit sounds or voices on a tape or digital voice recorder. The experimenter can ask questions and may get a response. This response can be in any form, such as an answer to a direct question, asking a question, making a statement or a moan or cry. The voices can only be heard when playing the tape back.
What is a vortex?
A vortex is believed to be a portal from the spirit world into ours. It's alleged to be in the form of a white tornado-shaped mist. We have never experienced a vortex, nor have any of our friends in the paranormal field. We believe that the vortex does not exist. All photos that we've evaluated of alleged vortex's have been disproven. Most of the time when they appear in photos, they are actually the camera strap dangling in front of the lens or a hair on the lens. Both appear white in color because of how close it is to the camera and the flash reflecting off of it. We do, however, believe that there are doorways to "the other side" that can be opened. But I don't believe these can be seen.
Are there evil ghosts?
Evil? In our opinion, no. Ghosts are the spirits of someone who has passed on and is either stuck between planes or has returned for a specific reason. We believe that ghosts are in the same form as when they were alive, There are nice ghosts and mean one's, depending on their personality. But we don't consider any of them evil, per say. An evil spirit would be a demon, which is not a ghost.
What is a poltergeist?
Poltergeist is a German word basically meaning "Noisy Ghost". Some people believe that a poltergeist is a nasty spirit. Some believe they are just demons. We believe a poltergeist is the manifestation of energy given off from a person. This generates kinetic energy, which is capable of moving things. We believe it's the result of RSPK.. Read more about poltergeists from the links below.
What is a Demon?
In all fairness, the answer to this again depends on who you ask, and the answers vary from person to person, based on their religious beliefs. But, this isn't saying that a person has to be religious to believe in demons.
In all essence, a demon is thought to be an evil inhuman entity with great hatred for mankind. It's sole purpose is to torment the life of its target by causing stress, breaking down one's will and generally reaking havoc. Their ultimate goal is to break down the person's will so that they are able to take control of that person's life, resulting in "Absolute Possession". The subject of demons is one that has been debated time and time again, especially by those who are atheists. But I assure you, from our personal experiences, demons do exist. You can read more about demons from the links below.
How do paranormal investigators determine that a place is haunted?
While all groups have their own methods, this is a common basis for most. When paranormal investigators accept a case, they first interview the subjects and document their experiences. This is done to be able to more accurately evaluate a situation and so investigators will know what to look for and what they're possibly up against. Next, the investigators will take a tour of the building or home and document any abnormalities. During this time, they will take baseline EMF and temperature readings an make note of any abnormalities. Some investigators will also bring in a medium or psychic to see what they may pick up on. Investigators will then set up their technical equipment and begin. Their determination of a place being haunted is based on the conclusion of evidence gathered during the investigation, as well as any input from mediums or psychics, if they choose. Remember, most investigators do not consider medium or psychic input to be evidence, rather it is simply added to the case file as documentation or to possibly corroborate stories or experiences.
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My home may be haunted. How can I tell?
First things first: We never recommend trying to capture evidence in your home if you suspect a haunting.
Is it hauntind or not? That can sometimes be a tough question to answer. Some people are very sensitive and can just "feel" the presence of a spirit. Other signs may be abnormal noises, such as loud distinct knocks or bangs, scratching on walls or ceilings, objects being moved without human interaction, faint clouds or mist, shadows that can't be easily explained or apparitions. Hauntings are sometimes difficult to discern, especially since houses exude natural noises such as creaking or popping sounds. Shadows can be naturally occurring as well. Most of the time, if it's an actual haunting, you'll sense it. Statistically, about 80% of signs of a haunting can be explained as natural or environmental occurrences.
Visit "Signs of a Haunting" for more information
OK, so I think my home is haunted, now what do I do?
Well, the first step is to really analyze the situation yourself. Think about all the things that you feel are happening and try to determine if any could possibly be caused by nature or human interaction. If there's anything that you can rule as a natural occurrence then you should rule that phenomena out. What you want to look for are the things that are truly unexplainable. There are sure signs of a haunting, such as objects being moved, voices, clouds or mist, physical interaction and apparitions. If you truly feel your home is experiencing paranormal phenomena, then evaluate that phenomena. You need to decide if it's something you can live with. If so, and if the haunting seems to be harmless, then you should probably do nothing. Just live with the experiences and accept them. If you're experiencing something frightening or possibly something evil, or if it's a situation that you simply can't live with, then you need to contact a paranormal investigation group or investigator. They have the knowledge and ability to help you deal with the situation. If you think your situation could be that of a demonic one, of if someone if the home has been physically attacked, we ask that you do not confront the entity. Do not acknowledge it. Do not attempt to gather evidence of its existence. Do not give it special recognition.
My house is haunted, can we get rid of the ghosts?
Yes and no. If the haunting is a residual one, then the answer is usually no; only time and new energy will help decrease the frequency of a residual haunting. If it's an intelligent haunting, then sometimes it is possible to get rid of it. Can the spirits involved in an intelligent haunting be forced to leave? Most of the time, no. But they can be asked to leave. Also, don't be fooled by television and movies: In this type of haunting, the spirits aren't inhuman, so religious methods will not work. And don't fall for those controversial methods (read more about these here). Your best bet is to seek the help of a paranormal investigator. If you are experiencing an inhuman or demonic haunting, then yes, you can almost always get rid of these entities. You need to first seek the help of an investigator, demonologist or priest. If you're experiencing a poltergeist type haunting, then this is more detailed.
Protect Yourself
Remember, never deal with any person who claims they can rid your home of spirits for a fee. True paranormal investigators DO NOT charge for their services. They may ask you to help cover the cost of their lodging or traveling expenses, which is reasonable. But they should NEVER charge for their service. If they do, turn them away immediately. There are also fraudulent psychics that operate in the same way. Once you schedule an interview/investigation with an organization, once they arrive, ask for proper identification from each person. Each of our members have an I.D. card with their photo on it, showing them to be a member of South Georgia Paranormal Research Society, along with their position. Some groups may not do this, but if they truly are professional, they will provide some type of I.D. The last thing you want is a bunch of unprofessional, inexperienced and unidentified people running around your home. Before the group arrives, you should remove valuables from plain sight and place all money in your wallet/purse/pocket. And remember, these precautions aren't meant to be insulting; they meant for your safety. And any professional, respectable group will completely understand you taking these precautions.
Don't fall for anyone that "guarantees" they can get rid of a spirit. This is just plain bull. Nobody can "guarantee" that their service will be successful. Nobody can guarantee that they can get rid of any spirit.
About "Certified Ghost Hunters"
If someone tells you they are a "Certified Ghost Hunter", you should take the time to understand exactly what that means. They can possess a certificate of completion from paranormal courses, which is good. But a "Certified Ghost Hunter" really doesn't mean too much. First of all, there's no courses that accredited. Famed paranormal investigator Patti Star conducts courses on how to conduct proper paranormal investigations, how to evaluate evidence and how to communicate with spirits. Patti has a lot of experience and does an excellent job. People that complete her courses are "Certified" by her organization, but certified in procedure and protocol. The label is actually "Certified Ghost Hunter". Personally, we don't like this label. For starters, we consider the term "Ghost Hunting" to be a novice one. Professionals prefer "Paranormal Investigator" or, as we prefer, "Paranormal Researcher". And sure, they're certified in the procedures. Patti is very good at what she does and we have the highest respect for her. But still, the label doesn't sit well with us. Don't get the wrong idea: This doesn't mean that any group that claims they are certified are not professional. One of our network groups are certified, but at the same time, they are very professional and do a very good job. We just want you to understand that being "Certified" is good, but it certainly does not mean that someone that is "certified" is a better, more professional investigator than someone who isn't.The bottom line is that goign through such courses isn't bad. BUT... DO NOT let that apparent credential be the deciding factor on choosing an organization. Many organizations, such as us, prefer to not be "certified". Why? Well, that's simple: Different groups/investigators have different ways of conducting investigations. Some are comfortable with certain techniques, others use their own personal proven techniques. The point is that everyone does this differently. It's a subjective field and you can never implement one procedure. Courses teach investigators to use their methods. But what if those methods aren't the best? What if those methods are dated or are just "out of line" with what another investigator chooses. One-for-all does not work in this field. Thus, being "Certified" is, to us, just a waste of time.
If you have any questions about any paranormal group, just let us know. We have tons of resources and can provide you with solid info.
You can also let us know if you encounter any of these fraudulent groups.
The links below will give you more detailed information on ways to deal with a haunting.
Some related and useful pages
