Grading Hauntings: A Guide for Paranormal Investigators

What grade is the next investigation?

As an expert paranormal investigator, it’s crucial to have a standardised system for grading hauntings to accurately assess and communicate the level of paranormal activity in a location. Below is a grading scale from 1 to 5, with definitions for each level of haunting:

Grade 5: Minor Haunting

Definition: A minor haunting is characterized by occasional and subtle paranormal phenomena. These events are infrequent and can often be easily explained by natural causes. This level of activity may not be noticeable to most people and typically does not cause any significant disturbance. Examples:

• Mild cold spots

• Unexplained but faint noises (like creaks or whispers)

• Brief feelings of being watched or a slight sense of unease

• Fleeting orbs

Grade 4: Low-Level Haunting

Definition: A low-level haunting involves more frequent paranormal occurrences that are still relatively benign. The activity is more noticeable than in a Grade 1 haunting but remains non-threatening. Examples:

• More pronounced cold spots

• Clearer but still sporadic unexplained sounds (footsteps, knocks)

• Occasional sightings of shadows or fleeting movements out of the corner of the eye

• Mild electronic disturbances (lights flickering, appliances turning on/off)

• Greater and regular number of orbs witnessed

Grade 3: Moderate Haunting

Definition: A moderate haunting shows consistent and noticeable paranormal activity. The phenomena are regular enough to be documented and start affecting the daily lives of those present. This level might cause moderate distress to the inhabitants. Examples:

• Regular cold spots and temperature fluctuations

• Audible voices or distinct sounds without a source

• Frequent sightings of shadow figures or partial apparitions

• Objects moving on their own or being misplaced

• Persistent electronic disturbances

• Frequent orbs seen and with greater definition, perhaps pulsating and/or strips of 'plasma'

Grade 2: High-Level Haunting

Definition: A high-level haunting is characterised by intense and frequent paranormal activities that are difficult to dismiss or explain away. The phenomena are often disruptive and can cause significant emotional or physical distress to those experiencing them. Examples:

• Strong cold spots that are difficult to ignore

• Loud, clear, and frequent unexplained noises

• Full-bodied apparitions that appear regularly

• Objects being thrown or moved aggressively

• Regular and severe electronic disturbances

• Physical interactions, such as touches or tugs

• Visions of Shadow People

• EVPs in response to questions, aggressive responses

Grade 1: Extreme Haunting

Definition: An extreme haunting involves relentless and often malevolent paranormal activity. These hauntings are intense and can pose a danger to the physical and mental well-being of those involved. Professional intervention is often required to address and manage the activity. Examples:

• Persistent and severe cold spots

• Continuous and loud unexplained noises

• Regular sightings of terrifying apparitions or shadow figures

• Objects being violently moved or destroyed

• Physical attacks or harmful interactions

• Severe and persistent electronic and environmental disturbances (e.g., appliances constantly malfunctioning, structural damage)
  

Closing Position

When grading hauntings using this 1 to 5 scale, it is important to note that these ratings reflect the level of paranormal activity observed at the time of the investigation. Paranormal phenomena are often fluid and dynamic, meaning the intensity and frequency of occurrences can vary over time. Environmental factors, the presence of different individuals, and even changes in the spiritual or emotional state of the location can influence the energy and activity levels. Therefore, a location graded at a certain level during one visit may exhibit a different grade during a subsequent investigation. This variability highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and reassessment to accurately understand and address the paranormal phenomena present.

Understanding and categorizing hauntings based on their activity level allows paranormal investigators to provide accurate assessments and take appropriate actions. By grading hauntings from 1 to 5, we can better communicate the severity and nature of the paranormal phenomena, ensuring that those affected receive the necessary support and intervention. This system helps to standardise the field and contributes to a more scientific approach to investigating the unknown.