Abstract

Reports findings from 3 phenomenological studies of out-of-body experiences (OBEs) in 61 university students. In Exp I, Ss were asked to complete an OBE questionnaire that assessed details of OBE experiences, their frequency and phenomenology, and demographic aspects. Data show that 81% of Ss reported more than 1 OBE and that 64% claimed prior knowledge of OBEs. 35% reported awareness of sensations of getting out of the body. Findings feature several similarities with previous studies. Exp II explored possible phenomenological differences between natural and enforced OBEs following R. Crookall's (1964) observations. It was hypothesized that natural OBEs would have a higher frequency of reports of specific characteristics than would enforced OBEs, and that mental, emotional, and perceptual aspects would be more positive in natural than in enforced OBEs. Data show no differences between Ss with natural OBEs (46%) and Ss with enforced OBEs (54%) and thus do not support the hypothesis. In Exp III, a subsample of Ss (n = 23) completed the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire. Data show no significant differences in scores between different OBE variables. (45 ref)