the investigation of evidence for the occurrence of psychic phenomena, e.g. telepathy and clairvoyance
Parapsychology was established as an academic discipline in the 1930s by J B and Louisa Rhine, who also coined the term ‘extrasensory perception’ (ESP) and devised laboratory techniques for investigating paranormal phenomena. Parapsychologists use scientific methods and statistical techniques, but their claims to have demonstrated ESP and PK (effects of mind on matter) remain controversial and are not accepted by most scientists — Dr Susan Blackmore
parapsychological /-ʹlojikl/ adj
parapsychologist noun