Canadian researchers have identified infrasound—low-frequency noise below human hearing range—as a potential cause for feelings of anxiety and eeriness in settings typically perceived as haunted. Led by Dr. Rodney Schmaltz from MacEwan University, the study involved 36 participants who listened to either relaxing or spooky music in a controlled environment, with half exposed to infrasound at 18 Hertz. Results indicated that those exposed reported higher levels of irritation and discomfort, alongside increased cortisol levels, a stress biomarker. The researchers suggested that infrasound might explain why certain locations, such as those near wind turbines or old buildings, can evoke feelings of distress or fear, rather than attributing these sensations to supernatural occurrences. While dismissive of ghosts generating infrasound, Schmaltz acknowledged that the study offers a rational explanation for unsettling experiences in such environments.
Why It Matters
This research highlights the psychological effects of infrasound, which has been linked to various environmental factors, including natural phenomena and urban noise. Previous studies have suggested that infrasound can induce feelings of fear and anxiety, influencing human behavior in specific settings. Understanding the impact of infrasound is crucial, particularly in contexts like urban planning and building design, where noise pollution can affect mental well-being. By providing a scientific basis for experiences often attributed to the paranormal, this study contributes to a broader understanding of how environmental factors influence human emotions and perceptions.
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