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Brian D. Parsons, Director, Ohio Paranormal Investigation Network
The Basics of Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigation
This page is your source of our information on training and other aspects of knowledge surrounding the investigation of the paranormal, all of our training links are included on this page. We offer a small slice of our knowledge through what we have read and acquired through observation and experience from our own case studies as well working with other groups and our own experiments and findings. Most of what you see here you will find on other sites, but hopefully you can find a piece of knowledge here that will help you in your search for knowledge and answers. This is our goal. Remember, this is only a small example of what we know and do, we will eventually publish our knowledge in greater detail and in a more organized fashion in the near future (for starters, view my book at right).
A quick word of warning before we begin. Do not pay for a course for a certification in ghost hunting or paranormal investigation! Most of the knowledge you are paying for is already found on the internet for free, the remainder is the opinions of the course administrator and old outdated material that is typically formed from misinformation spread by the internet (things about ghost hunting that are not true or accurate). Most of these courses are designed to benefit the provider of the content rather than the recipient. There are exceptions to this and you must look at the presenter and what you will get out of the course more than what the course promises you. A certification means nothing in this field as there is no scientific discipline recognized as "ghost hunting" or "paranormal investigation". If you have any questions along the way, feel free to use the contact link at the left.
Our first segment deals with the basics of Parapsychology and how this field is the backbone of what we study. We will explore the "Big three" types of anomalies you will encounter and discuss film anomalies.
The next section deals with places or stories to investigate, namely the urban legend. What is an urban legend and why is it sometimes pointless to investigate them and how do they actually benefit ghost hunters and paranormal investigators?
The following links provide specific information on conducting an investigation (interview) over the phone, investigation in the field, and the tools needed for a sound scientific investigation. I like to point out that I believe in handling all investigations scientifically. This means background researching, interviewing of witnesses, the physical layout of the site, documentation of everything that you do within the investigation. It is the only way you can keep yourself in check and be able to provide others with your findings in a manner that will provide written verification of facts to assist your claims.
Art of the Interview- The most important part of your whole investigation. Science of Fieldwork- The on site guide to ghost hunting and paranormal investigation. Also includes a list of tools to accompany you.
Background research is essential in all investigations. It is the cornerstone to any scientific investigation and is a necessary tool to provide actual facts about your case (not hearsay) and will help the validity of any findings. The internet can provide you with a place to start, but do not expect it to provide you with details in your specific search. The local library (near the investigation) is your best bet in most situations. Not only do they contain information with the local area, they can provide you with a place to look elsewhere. Do not be afraid to ask for help! Local government offices are the next best place to search. They should be able to provide you with documentation on cemeteries and property history. A quick trip through the government offices section of the white pages is a healthy start. Historical societies can also provide great support in your research. It will be necessary to make phone calls and ask many questions to search for most information, but it is well worth the time and effort in the long run. Once you become familiar with the resources available in your area you will become comfortable in traveling to other areas to do other background research. Remember, each city has its restrictions on the offices and information available to the public, it´s just a matter of asking questions to find the area that will provide you with what you are looking for.
