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British Journal of Psychology

ISSN 0007-1269

1 paper in the library · 98 citations · publishing 2004

Papers

A Rasch scaling validation of a ‘core’ near‐death experience

British Journal of Psychology May 1, 2004 Rense Lange, Bruce Greyson, James Houran 98 citations

A Rasch analysis of the Greyson Near-Death Experience (NDE) Scale shows that it measures a single, interval-level dimension in people reporting true NDEs. As NDE intensity increases, the experiences progress from peace and joy to mystical insights, and finally to awareness of events in other places or times. This pattern is consistent regardless of gender, age, or when the NDE occurred. True NDEs differ qualitatively and quantitatively from other groups' responses, particularly in the emphasis on paranormal or mystical elements. The findings suggest that some people may misinterpret other psychological states as NDEs, and that religious background may influence how these experiences are reported.