Parapsychology is a field of study that investigates paranormal or “psychic" phenomena, including purported mental abilities such as telepathy and telekinesis. Parapsychologists aim to test the existence and explore the nature of experiences and abilities in the paranormal realm.
How Parapsychology Erodes Self-Worth
Parapsychology frequently attacks the foundation of how we see ourselves. The relationship between parapsychology and self-worth is often deeply entangled.
Common ways parapsychology damages self-worth:
- Negative core beliefs: "Parapsychology means I'm broken/weak/unlovable"
- Comparison thinking: measuring yourself against others who don't struggle
- Internalized shame: believing parapsychology is your fault
- Achievement avoidance: not trying to avoid confirming negative beliefs
- People-pleasing: seeking external validation to compensate
Separating Identity from Parapsychology
One of the most powerful shifts in recovering self-worth while managing parapsychology is learning to separate who you are from what you experience:
- Parapsychology is something you have, not something you are
- Your worth is not determined by your symptoms or struggles
- Many people with parapsychology lead deeply meaningful, connected lives
- Struggles often build unique strengths: empathy, resilience, insight
Evidence-Based Approaches
Self-Compassion Practice (Kristin Neff):
- Acknowledge your suffering without judgment
- Remember suffering is a shared human experience
- Offer yourself the same kindness you'd give a friend
Values-Based Identity:
- Identify your core values independent of parapsychology
- Act in alignment with values even when parapsychology is present
- Let values-driven actions build evidence of your worth
Recovery Path
- Therapy (especially schema therapy or ACT) targets core beliefs
- Journaling: document evidence against negative self-beliefs
- Celebrate small wins that challenge "I can't" narratives
- Surround yourself with people who see your full worth