Poltergeist facts for kids
A poltergeist is a type of ghost or spirit that people believe can move objects and make noises. The word "poltergeist" comes from two German words: poltern, which means "to rumble" or "make noise," and Geist, meaning "ghost" or "spirit." People often describe poltergeists as being invisible.
Poltergeists are often said to bother only one person at a time. This person is sometimes called their "focus." Stories say that poltergeist activity usually lasts only a few weeks. After that, the activity might stop or move to a different person. Many reports of poltergeists happen around children and teenagers.
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What Are Poltergeists?
Poltergeists are known for causing strange events. These events can include objects moving on their own, loud knocking sounds, or even things being thrown. People who believe in poltergeists think these spirits are trying to get attention or cause trouble.
How Poltergeists Act
- Moving Objects: One common report is that poltergeists can make things like furniture or dishes slide across a room.
- Making Noise: They are often said to create loud bangs, knocks, or scratching sounds. These noises might come from walls, floors, or ceilings.
- Short-Lived Activity: Unlike some other ghost stories, poltergeist events are usually reported to be short. They might only last for a few weeks or months.
Scientific Ideas About Poltergeists
Some scientists and researchers have different ideas about what causes poltergeist activity. They often look for natural explanations instead of supernatural ones.
Psychokinesis and Trauma
One idea is that poltergeist effects might be linked to something called psychokinesis. This is the idea that a person's mind can affect physical objects. Some scientists think that strong emotions or stress, especially in young people, might accidentally cause objects to move. This is sometimes called the "poltergeist effect." They suggest that mental trauma or stress could be a hidden cause.
Poltergeists in Movies and Books
Poltergeists have appeared in many popular stories and films. They are a common subject in horror and fantasy.
Famous Stories
- Poltergeist Movie: There is a well-known 1982 movie simply called Poltergeist. It tells the story of a family whose home is taken over by a poltergeist.
- Peeves in Harry Potter: In the Harry Potter book series, there is a character named Peeves. He is described as a poltergeist who causes mischief at Hogwarts School. However, Peeves is different from traditional poltergeists because he can be seen, and he bothers many people, not just one.
Images for kids
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Epworth Rectory, a place where strange events were reported in the 1710s.
See also
In Spanish: Poltergeist para niños
