Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
It is not uncommon to ascribe the experience of sleep paralysis to demonic possession, although it's not a physical or mental illness. [132] Studies have found that alleged demonic possessions can be related to trauma. [133]
Since demonic possession, according to Roman Catholic teachings, is extremely rare, and mental health issues are often mistaken for demonic possession, the Vatican requires that each diocese have a specially trained priest who is able to diagnose demonic possession and perform exorcisms when necessary." [5]
The occurrence of a possession, has similar characteristics of someone who is experiencing a mental illness. [69] Characteristics such as an abrupt change in behaviour and demeanor, loss of faith, thoughts of being chosen by a demonic power, experiences in seeing and hearing evil entities, and persistent fear in demonic forces. [ 69 ]
Modern-day exorcist Rachel Stavis is opening up about spirits and demonic possessions, just in time for Halloween. ... It is long believed that mental illness and possession are mutually exclusive ...
Trauma was also considered to be something that caused high levels of emotion. Thus, trauma is a possible catalyst for mental illness due to its ability to allow the Wei Chi open to possession. This explains why the ancient Chinese believed that a mental illness was, in reality, a demonic possession. [17]
The source reported that they believed Ammons was suffering from mental health concerns and that the children were performing for their mother and she was encouraging the behavior.
Critics of exorcism contend that so-called 'possession' is often, in fact, undiagnosed mental or physical illness and the performance of an exorcism in such cases exacerbates the condition and can even be considered abuse. [57] There have also been cases where exorcists have abused their position for financial gain. [58]
To psychiatrists, Rob Doe suffered from mental illness. To priests this was a case of demonic possession. To writers and film/video producers this was a great story to exploit for profit. Those involved saw what they were trained to see.