Are shadow people real?

Shadow people, as in physical beings of shadow that exist in our reality, are not considered real by mainstream science. The reported experiences of seeing shadow figures are more often attributed to psychological or environmental factors.

Here's a breakdown:

• Hallucinations: As the provided reference indicates, substances such as deliriants can cause vivid hallucinations, which may manifest as shadowy figures. Conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can also lead to visual hallucinations that people interpret as "shadow people."

• Optical Illusions: The human eye and brain are prone to optical illusions. Low lighting, peripheral vision, and even fatigue can cause us to misinterpret shapes and movements, leading to the perception of shadowy figures.

• Pareidolia: This is the tendency of the brain to see familiar patterns in random stimuli. A trick of the light or a shape in the corner of your eye might be unconsciously interpreted as a person or figure.

• Sleep Paralysis: A state where one is conscious but unable to move, often accompanied by hallucinations. These hallucinations can sometimes involve shadowy figures.

• Environmental Factors: Shadows cast by objects, reflections, and even quick movements in your peripheral vision can all be misinterpreted as shadow people.

While the experience of seeing shadow people can be very real and frightening for those who report it, the most likely explanations involve psychological or environmental factors rather than the existence of actual shadowy beings.