Article by Cindy Blake, President of the Michigan Ghost Watchers
ETHICS IN GHOST HUNTING
In the field of paranormal research (ghost hunting), we face many obstacles. One of the hardest to overcome is not being perceived as credible and professional. I have written this article with this in mind, in order to give my suggestions on how we can help everyone in our field to earn the respect of the citizens in the communities we serve. I hope you will find the following tips and suggestions helpful.
IF YOU RUN A PARANORMAL GROUP
1. Be professional at all times and expect your members to do the same. Always treat your members and your clients fairly and honestly.
2. Do not disrespect other groups. There are vast differences in beliefs within our field of research. If your opinions and techniques differ from those of other ghost hunters, keep them confined to discussions with your members.
3. Get the owner’s permission for every site you investigate, in writing if possible. Alert the police department in the location’s jurisdiction as to when and where you will be investigating if it’s a public area such as a cemetery.
4. Be original. Do your own work. Don’t attempt to steal the reputation, photographs, name or written materials from other groups to gain a “jump-start” for your organization. Good communications and knowledge sharing between paranormal groups is vital towards the goal of gaining the respect of other group leaders and the public.
5. Always give proper credit in any publications (including websites) to the person who provided you with the photographs and or information you are using.
6. Conduct group meetings and maintain good communications with your members. Listen to any opinions and suggestions they may have. Strive for improvement at all times.
7. Provide your members with materials, advice and other forms of educational materials as much as possible to help them advance towards your shared goals.
8. Encourage teamwork and communications between members.
9. Make your group unique and stick to your goals. Do things the way you believe they should be done, while allowing new knowledge and ideas to influence your decisions.
IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A GROUP
1. Be respectful of your group leader(s) and other members. Conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times while at investigations and group events.
2. Never trespass on property or vandalize property in any way.
3. Follow your group’s rules and protocols at all times.
4. Study, study, study!! Our field is full of websites, articles, courses and books to help you learn as much as possible about what works and what doesn’t. There are no experts, but there are many folks out there with years of experience who are willing to help you and share information.