How to Become a Paranormal Investigator??

Question

I'm only 13, but I have a HUGE interest in the paranormal. I have for about a year now, and I just want to know some basics: video stuff, etc. And homemade tools are cool, also. :) thanks so much for answering (if you did)!!! :D

Answer 1

All you really need as a beginning investigator is a camera and a voice recorder. You can a digital voice recorder for $35 at Best Buy and stores like that. You can use a disposable camera to take pictures of supposedly haunted places a video camera at your age might be out of your price range unless your family owns one you can use theirs. And a journal to write down any and all of your paranormal experiences. I've included a few links that may be of help. Happy Hunting!

Answer 2

I think you should go online and look for paranormal investigators in your area. There will be numbers you can call and you can ask them how they got into paranormal research.

Since you already know so much they might actually hire you as a apprentice when you get a little older.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Watch the X-files.

Answer 4

Just develop a good interest in photography and videography.  That way you'll have a marketable skill when you realize that ghosts don't exist.

Answer 5

The equipment you see on the television shows is quite expensive, but you could start attempting to capture paranormal activity with a camera and a tape recorder. There are associations you can join, though some may charge a fee, or better yet - perhaps you can start your own group at school. I'm sure there are many people your age with the same interest!

Answer 6

I did too at your age.  I would encourage you to *investigate* any paranormal claim using the scientific method and an impartial way of gathering measurable data.  That way you learn about the location you're investigating.  You allow the data to dictate your conclusions.  What you shouldn't do is to assume there's a ghost and just poke around in the dark looking for it.  That's where so much of what you see on the TV falls short.  If you assume something exists before you even begin making observations then you aren't investigating at all.

I know it's not as fun, but it's what investigators do.  Have fun with it.  Curiosity and a desire to learn about the world is always a good thing to see in someone your age.  Just don't do yourself the disservice of approaching your investigations in an intellectually dishonest manner.

Here's a good book on paranormal investigation written by a guy who's been doing it for decades:

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Life-X-Files-...

Answer 7

Basic instincts help a lot. There are classes you can take that certify you for paranormal investigations. However you are pretty young so do a lot of reading.  Read Jason and Grant's book. Most things are trial and error.

Video things you can use any kind of video recorder that has night shot or vision, although infa-red are the best.

The best and easiest way to start, is EVP's, it is easier to hear and analyze voices and noises, because you were there. Video and pictures are more difficult because you have to recognize real cast shadows versus unknown and dust or bugs.

Answer 8

watch Ghost Hunters on sci fi channel

Answer 9

There is no “formal” schooling required to become a paranormal investigator.  There is no requirement that a person obtain a certain level of education prior to embarking on paranormal studies.  It is only necessary that you have an interest in the paranormal, a respect for all people (living and dead), a quest to seek answers, and an open mind!

There are many organizations offering “certification”, but you would be well advised to steer clear of them.  In reality, there is no such thing as a degree or certification of paranormal studies (save for a college degree in parapsychology), and there is no such thing as a “Certified Paranormal Investigator”; and those who use those terms or put initials after their names are sciolists.  

That being said, all of the “schooling” needed to pursue your goal is readily available as information in books and magazines, on the Internet, and by speaking with others with the same interests.  In fact, we encourage you to read everything you can on the subject but at the same time, don’t believe everything you read.  While most of it is well intended, the information is often contradictory and can be confusing.  Additionally, there will be times when you feel uncomfortable reading about certain topics, or strongly disagree with the methods or processes you read about.  Rely on our conscience.  All of the investigators in Paranormal Researchers of Ohio are Christian, and rely on our Faith in God to lead us in our studies and beliefs.  If we become uncomfortable when reading a certain book or researching a certain topic, we stop.

The field of paranormal research is vast and much has been written. Just as people differ, views on paranormal topics differ. There are no definites when it comes to this subject. For example, whereas some people are convinced that ‘orbs’ in photos are spirit energy, there are others who are just as convinced that they are simply dust.  While looking at a video and seeing a swirling mist, one investigator might interpret it as a spirit manifesting itself into an apparition, while another equally interested investigator might interpret it as fog rolling in through an open window.  With that in mind, remember that it is not our job as investigators to convince others of what we believe.  Listen to and respect others’ opinions, even if they contradict yours. It’s another way to learn.

One thing that the vast majority of researchers/investigators agree on is to never (ever) use Ouija boards, or conduct or attend séances in your quest for paranormal contact.   We at Paranormal Researchers of Ohio fervently oppose the use of these grievous methods of communication.  If you need more information about opposition to these devices, please contact us.  

Another thing that most reputable investigators agree on is that no one under the age of 18 should perform paranormal investigations.  Period.  The reasons for this are many, but the first and foremost is the safety issue (You may have read about the teenager who was shot in the head and chest while ghost hunting, as well as the numerous arrests made when ghost hunters trespass, etc). Paranormal investigations can be physically and psychologically damaging, and children and young adults are far more likely to get hurt, are unprepared for the consequences of interacting with the dead, and, quite frankly, are more easily taken over by ghosts than older adults.

Please also understand that there is a clear a distinction between "field trips" and "investigations" and between “ghost hunters” and “paranormal investigators.”   There is much more to investigations than just going to cemeteries and haunted places. People need to be properly trained to perform investigations so they can correctly, safely, and legally identify and document paranormal activity. If an investigating team has been admitted into the privacy of someone's home or business, they have accepted huge responsibility and liability.  Also, the Team will be expected to deal with the emotions (fear, confusion, etc.) and danger that can surround the home and family. This is a serious undertaking that, in our professional opinion, should not be pursued by the untrained non-investigator.  



We hope that this email was able to answer your questions, and give you insight.



Good luck!

Answer 10

First I would suggest you find a mentor involved in paranormal investigation. I would not suggest at 13 you go around in graveyards or people's homes looking for ghosts on your own. At this time you should read books from different viewpoints, and there are no shortage of them on ghost hunting out there. Start out simply with the basics and get an idea of what they can do for you - a digital camera, EMF meter, video camera, a digital recorder - this will give you a good start. Avoid things like ouija boards, seances, and other non-scientific and potentially dangerous activities. Now a days there are plenty of groups out there interested in paranormal investigation, so try www.meetup.com or do a Google search for a local chapter. Good luck!

Answer 11

A lot of the answers have covered some very good points but for now I suggest you do more studying than investigating. These things are not always nice and can cause harm so learn as much as you can before jumping right into investigating!  It may also do you some good to work on your psychic abilities... we all have them but some people develop them and others don't.

One more thing... don't be swayed by the skeptics about your beliefs but always be skeptical... in other words believe what you believe no matter what someone else wants you to believe and make sure you try to debunk anything you might think is paranormal like you were a skeptic so when you are left with something you can't explain you can be pretty sure your left with something paranormal.

Answer 12

First be aware that this will never become a paying job (more on that later).

I would start by finding a group in my area and joining them. I have included a link below to help you locate groups. When you join watch carefully for what you believe they do well and what you think might be improved.

Before joining I suggest reading the books:

"How To Find A Ghost" by James Deem   and

"Paranormal Investigator's Handbook" Ed. Valerie Hope

Both give very good and very basic ideas for investigation.

I required all my investigators to read the above books before going on their first investigation.

Next, I would discover what aspect of investigating that I enjoy and that I am good at (not always the same thing). You may enjoy learning about photography and setting up equipment on investigations. On the other hand you may enjoy interviewing people and finding out what they experienced more than photography. Find the approach that suits you best.

Lastly, if you wish to pursue this as a career then what you do would change slightly. Paranormal Investigator is not a paying job but parapsychologist can be a paying job.

In parapsychology you are more likely to work in a laboratory conducting experiments than to go investigate haunted homes. Although a few parapsychologist still conduct haunting investigations.

There are VERY few full time paying positions for parapsychologist and most work at colleges and universities teaching or conducting research in more conventional areas (biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, anthropology, etc. ) of science.

All the full members of the Parapsychological Association (link below) hold doctoral degrees (M.D., Ph.D.) and most hold them in a conventional science.

So, do well in science and math classes.

Please feel free to contact me if you have additional questions.

Psi

Answer 13

well i would wait till you are older as most groups only take members who are over 18 but ill tell  you anyway  if you are using a video cam make sure it has night shot plus with a light on it as well , a very good video editing tool is ulead video studio 10 or 11  once you have that if you use digital camcorders or analog you can also get a software and hardware set called camera mate from smart disk hope this helps .

good luck