Exploratory Study of the Temperament Theory and Paranormal Experiences

Few studies have explored personality traits to explain paranormal experiences, so it is not surprising that connections remain to be made between such experiences and a person's temperament. The aim of this study is to compare the frequency of paranormal experiences across four temperament groups. Questionnaires that included the standarized Spanish version of the Eysenck Personality Inventory (Form A) were distributed to 2678 Psychology undergraduate students, and 1860 usable returns were retained for the categorization procedure. Individuals who scored in the upper and lower quartiles for extraversion and neuroticism were allocated to one of four groups: Phlegmatic (n = 30); Sanguine (n = 54); Melancholic (n = 159); and Choleric (n = 160). This sample completed a second 10-item self-report inventory designed to measure spontaneous paranormal/anomalous experiences. Members of the Choleric group scored higher on frequency of Out-of-Body Experiences, ESP in dreams, Aura, Déjà-vu, and overall count of experiences; the Sanguine group scored higher on Telepathy; whereas the Melancholic group scored higher on frequency of Sense of presence. Certain anomalous experiences, such as OBE, dreams recall and auras, could be facilitated using extravert subjects characterized as touchy, restless, excitable, changeable, and impulsive.