Spirit Classifications

  1. Poltergeists – Known for their noisy and sometimes destructive behavior, poltergeists are spirits that interact with the physical environment, often moving or throwing objects. They’re more about creating mischief and fear rather than causing harm.
  2. Apparitions – These are the visual forms ghosts take, which can be as detailed as a living person or as vague as a mist. Some believe they’re the souls of deceased individuals who have unfinished business or are unaware they’ve passed away.
  3. Shadows or Shadow Figures – Often seen peripherally, these dark figures are usually associated with a malevolent presence. They’re less detailed than apparitions and are often linked to feelings of intense fear or dread.
  4. Orbs – Orbs are spheres of light that appear in photographs or videos, believed by some to represent the soul of a deceased individual. Skeptics argue they’re often just dust, pollen, or insects caught on camera.
  5. Ectoplasm or Spiritual Energy – Described in spiritualism as a physical manifestation of spiritual energy, ectoplasm appears as a mist or slime. It’s often associated with mediumship and séances.
  6. Intelligent Hauntings – These spirits are aware of the living and can interact with them, sometimes attempting to communicate through various means. They are conscious entities that retain their personality and memories.
  7. Residual Hauntings – Unlike intelligent hauntings, residual ghosts do not interact with the living. Instead, they are like recordings of past events that replay over and over, often tied to traumatic or significant moments in the spirit’s life.
  8. Elementals – Believed to be spirits of nature or tied to natural forces, elementals are not human souls but rather entities that have never lived a human life. They’re often associated with ancient or pagan beliefs.
  9. Demons – These are malevolent entities often believed to be fallen angels or spirits with evil intentions. They’re associated with possession and are considered powerful and dangerous.
  10. Angels – On the flip side, angels are benevolent spirits believed to act as messengers or guardians for the living, guiding and protecting them.