Glossary

Automatic Writing

Automatic writing is the practice of writing words or messages without conscious control of the writing process.

Overview

People who practice automatic writing often report entering a trance-like state where words appear to flow spontaneously.

Key Insight

Automatic writing has been associated with spiritualist traditions and psychological dissociation.

Scientific Status

Psychologists generally interpret automatic writing as a form of unconscious cognitive processing.

How Researchers Study It

Researchers analyse automatic writing through psychological experiments and studies of creativity and dissociation.

Quick Facts

Field
psychology
Related Concepts
channeling, mediumship
Typical Context
trance states

FAQ

  • Is automatic writing paranormal?

    Most scientists interpret it as a psychological phenomenon.