MAPPING THE CHARACTERISTICS OF OUT-OF-BODY EXPERIENCES

It is argued that systematic research on the phenomenology of out-of-b ody experiences (OBEs) has been neglected. More could be done on the v ariety of OBE features, including incidence and description, and a con sideration of changes during the same experience and between experienc es. Another important line of research is the study of variables that may moderate OBE content. This includes induction factors, interrelati ons of different features, and psychological variables. In addition, O BE features may be studied in regard to developmental issues and their change over time. A research program based on the above consideration s will be useful to: (1) The development of empirically-derived defini tions of the experience; (2) The development of typologies of the expe rience; (3) The development and testing of theories to explain the OBE ; (4) The differentiation or association of the OBE from and to other states of consciousness and experiences; and (5) Help clinicians to de al with individuals reporting OBEs.