Abstract

Explores the nature of the psychological boundaries related to subjective perception of success in interpersonal psychic training exercises. Ss were 67 attendees (mean age 49 yrs) at a "Psychic Development Training and Research Project." Self-rated success on the exercises was correlated with the Boundaries Questionnaire (E. Hartmann, 1991), the Psychic Experiences Scale (D. G. Richards, 1990), and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedules (D. Watson et al, 1988). Thin boundaries, characterized by unusual empathy and fluidity of thoughts and feelings, along with previous psychic experiences and a general positive emotional state, are good predictors of a subjective sense of success. Affect and boundaries are not highly correlated and make largely independent contributions to success. Together, these 3 variables account for 34% of the variance--a substantial amount.