Author: Sabahat Ashraf
Supervisor: Naumana Amjad, PhD
Degree: BS
Year: 2012-2016
University: Institute of Applied Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between superstitious beliefs and scientific reasoning in early adults and older adults. It was hypothesized that there would be a relationship between scientific reasoning and superstitious belief. In this study the correlational design was used. The superstitious belief scale (Riaz, 2013) and general decision making questionnaire (Scott & Bruce, 1995) was used to collect data. The sample comprised of 100 participants, (N = 100) early adults (n= 50) with the age range of 18-25 and older adults with the age range of 50-80 in both genders. Results indicated that there was a negative relationship between scientific reasoning and superstitious beliefs indicating less the scientific reasoning that higher the superstitious beliefs. Moreover, scientific reasoning was a negative predictor of superstitious beliefs. Age and education as well as gender also predicted superstitious beliefs. Women, less educated adults and older adults had more superstitious beliefs. The study had important implications in improving irrational beliefs that inculcate superstitions.
Keywords: Superstitious Beliefs, Paranormal Beliefs, Scientific Reasoning, Rational Thinking.
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Corresponding Address: Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Email: chairperson@appsy.pu.edu.pk, Phone: 92-42-9231245
