Super Natural: The Relationship Between Nature Connectedness and Supernatural Belief

This mixed-methods study examines the previously unevaluated relationship between nature connectedness (NC) and supernatural belief (SB). Quantitative studies assessed whether NC predicted SB, whether this relationship impacted wellbeing, and how NC related to perceptions of personal paranormal experiences. Qualitative techniques explored how supposed supernatural eyewitnesses conceptualised nature. 154 participants completed three scales measuring NC, SB and wellbeing. Those reporting experiences answered questions about the event, their emotional response, and their relationship with nature. Linear regression found that NC significantly, positively predicted SB. NC also significantly, positively predicted wellbeing, though SB did not. Mann-Whitney U testing showed NC to be significantly higher amongst those who reported personal experiences than those who did not. However, a Kruskal-Wallis test identified no significant difference in NC between those reporting different types of supernatural phenomena (human-like figures, aerial objects, etc). Multinomial logistic regression found NC to significantly predict how individuals felt about experiences: those who thought of them positively had higher NC scores. Reflexive Thematic Analysis explored the research question: “How do people with personal paranormal experiences understand the natural world?” Themes involved: nature connectedness; humanity’s place in nature; animals; and distinctions between the natural and supernatural. The findings and implications are discussed.