Magical thinking may even offer some benefits, such as: The little bits of magical thinking that stick with you after childhood often become harmless traditions or habits. Scientifically speaking, religious rituals like praying or making the sign of the cross to ward off evil do have some overlap with magical thinking - but these actions typically represent religious faith.Ĭhildren commonly engage in magical thinking, since this stage happens naturally as part of development. Note: Most people don't consider religious rituals, like praying or making the sign of the cross to ward off evil, magical thinking. You might also make a wish on a shooting star, or as you blow out your birthday candles, and refuse to tell anyone what you wished for - since, after all, you believe that means your wish won't come true. Believing in associated outcomes: Perhaps you never open an umbrella inside, since you fear it'll bring you bad luck.On the other hand, you may also avoid "unlucky" tokens, like the number 13. Assigning power to objects: You might, for instance, wear a favorite T-shirt to help your team win, use a special pencil to help you pass a test, or get excited when you find a four-leaf clover or a face-up penny, since you link them to good luck.Engaging in repeated or ritualistic behaviors: Examples of superstitious rituals include knocking on wood, crossing your fingers, holding your breath when driving past a graveyard, or throwing salt over your shoulder.In other words, you give your actions, beliefs, or specific objects more power over situations than they actually have.Īccording to Naomi Torres-Mackie, head of research at The Mental Health Coalition, examples of magical thinking include: Jason Rose, an associate professor of psychology at The University of Toledo. In a nutshell, magical thinking means you believe your thoughts and actions can cause certain things to happen - or not happen, according to Dr.
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