Geophysical variables and behavior: XCVII. Increased proportions of the left-sided sense of presence induced experimentally by right hemispheric application of specific (frequency-modulated) complex magnetic fields.

Abstract

12 young men and women who were not aware of the stimulus order were exposed to 8 configurations of weak 1 microTesla) magnetic fields for 5 min. each, applied primarily over the right parietotemporal region. The numbers of sensed presences along the left side, right side, or front/back, as inferred by button presses at the time of the experience, were recorded. There were significantly (eta2= .37) more experiences along the left side than the right side during the presentations of a frequency-modulated (Thomas) pattern with 3-msec. point durations compared to the presentation of its temporally reversed structure or to patterns that were more or less complex. 40% of all left-sided presences occurred during the 5-min. presentation of this specific frequency-modulated pattern. These results suggest that the subjective lateralization of a sensed presence to the left during right hemispheric stimulation by weak magnetic fields is enhanced by the specific temporal structure of the applied field.