From Acute Pain to Intense Elation: The Psychological Dynamics of Five Individuals Who Experienced Spirit Possession
Jurnal Psikologi January 24, 2017 Michael Seno Rahardanto, - Subandi 8 citations
Trance possession occurs across cultures but is rarely studied, and no consensus exists on its causes. This case study of five individuals proposes four distinct categories: pathological, religious, curative, and entertainment possession. Pathological possession involved acute psychological pain and chaotic-disengaged family histories. Religious possession (being overcome by the Holy Spirit) brought intense spiritual ecstasy and joy. Entertainment possession was triggered by music and ritual, attributed to supernatural beings. The findings support a holistic perspective: possession is a dynamic interaction between repressed psychological needs, frustrations, desires, and socioreligious beliefs. A single theoretical or physiological lens risks 'medical materialism,' as William James warned.