New research led by Jennifer Golbeck, professor of computer science at the University of Maryland, reveals the therapeutic potential of observed paranormal encounters with deceased pets.
The studywhich delved into the realm of social media to collect data, asked individuals who had lost a dog if they had experienced any form of contact with their pet post-mortem, such as seeing their ghost, receiving a sign or feeling their presence.
The aim was to investigate the nature of these encounters and their emotional impact on the bereaved.
The findings were nothing short of astonishing. A significant 37% of participants reported auditory phenomena, claiming to hear their dog barking or the familiar sound of their paws walking across the floor of their home.
Visual observations, sensing the dog’s presence, dreams and even the feeling of the dog lying next to them were also common experiences shared by respondents.
Furthermore, a significant 76% of those who reported such encounters described them as positive experiences that provided reassurance and comfort during their grieving process.
This is in stark contrast to the traditional psychological view that external, ongoing bonds, such as seeing ghosts, are negative and possibly maladaptive.
Professor Golbeck’s research sheds light on the nuanced ways in which people continue to bond with their pets even after death.
It suggests that, unlike encounters with human spirits or other entities, which can often be experienced as disturbing or frightening, interactions with deceased pets are often comforting and healing.
This research opens new conversations about the role of pets in our lives and the lasting bonds we share with them. It shows a reevaluation of the way we perceive and cope with grief, suggesting that there may be more to these paranormal experiences than meets the eye.
In fact, they can be a natural and helpful part of the grieving process, providing comfort to those who have lost a beloved animal friend.
