Socio-Psychological Effects of the Beliefs on Supernatural Beings: Case Studies from Southeast Anatolia

This study explores traditional beliefs and practices on the supernatural beings as well as their effects in Southeast Anatolian society. Case studies from six provinces of Southeast Anatolia indicate that there are still severe socio-psychological effects of the demonic possession, albeit constant debate about the existences of supernatural beings is seen throughout the region. While the religious and sacred books have a different approach to this issue, this field study illustrates that the supernatural forces are mostly regarded with exaggeration and great fear. Moreover, the people in Southeast Anatolia seem to be inherited the traditional beliefs and practices of supernatural beings from their religious, cultural and socio-environmental background