I’ve always been captivated by the dark, mysterious corners of the paranormal world. When I first came across Mike from the up and coming; The D.E.A.D. Institute of Paranormal Research on Instagram, I knew I had to reach out to him for an interview! His work in demonology, exorcisms, and exploring the anomalies of the darker side of the paranormal truly fascinated me. I wanted to learn more about his journey, what drove him, and the research behind his institute. Luckily for us, Mike agreed to share his insights in this Exciting Q&A!
Q&A with Mike from The D.E.A.D. Institute of Paranormal Research
1. What inspired the creation of the D.E.A.D. Institute, and what is its primary mission?
Mike: That’s sort of a mixed answer! On one hand, I have always been interested in the darker things in life the stuff most people generally don’t like to talk about. On the other hand, most recently this past year, I have been met with a number of life-changing events that really made me step back and reassess what I was doing with my life. This life is short, and we shouldn’t be wasting it on things that don’t set our soul on fire. This is just one of many projects I have always wanted to flesh out.
In terms of the mission? Well, I wanted to fill in the missing pieces I saw in the vast paranormal field. I have taken many different courses and read many different books on multiple subjects within the paranormal spectrum, and while they were all excellent for the most part, I found two big things that stood out to me.
First, I noticed that there wasn’t much serious effort put into the darker side, such as demonology, exorcism, poltergeists, etc. You can find resources out there, but they’re much more limited than that of your traditional ghost-hunting resources and I get it! That’s what has been made popular over the last few years.
Finally, even within the resources I found, there were always certain things I would have liked to have seen added that I felt would have made it more complete. So with that in mind, I wanted to bring all of those things together in one place that could focus solely on what is often looked over as a mere footnote.
2. Can you explain what kind of research is conducted at the D.E.A.D. Institute?
Mike: The D.E.A.D. Institute is committed to finding, and bringing under one umbrella, any and all information regarding Demonology, Exorcisms, and Anomalies of the Darkness (hence the name D.E.A.D.).
In doing so, countless hours go into reading books (to include various holy books), watching interviews, and cross-referencing information for validity and continuity. Keep in mind that this can, at times, be difficult due to the variation of same or similar stories throughout different religions and belief systems!
3. What is the most surprising or unexpected discovery you’ve made through your research at the D.E.A.D. Institute?
Mike: Aside from the various spins on similar stories like I just mentioned, one of the most fascinating details I have discovered over time is that, contrary to popular belief, not all demons are considered evil! There are good demons, bad demons, some that are a little of both depending on the circumstance. Most demons are even credited with having knowledge of and teaching subjects such as the sciences and arts!
4. Are there any specific cases or encounters that have shaped the direction of your research?
Mike: Though nothing in particular has swayed the direction of my research, there are two world-famous possession cases that I find deeply fascinating: Anneliese Michel and Clara Germana Cele. There are certain things with both cases that could potentially be explained away while there are also things that cannot be, leaving you in complete disbelief.
5. What role does spiritual belief or faith play in the work conducted by the D.E.A.D. Institute?
Mike: There’s two sides to this coin:
From the academic perspective, I believe that personal faith or belief simply cannot play a part in the research and work being conducted in order to be as fair and open-minded as possible. I think that is part of the reason I am able to do what I am with this project because I personally don’t have one specific avenue of faith or belief. If I believe anything, it’s that there are many ways to climb a mountain, but at the end, we are all pursuing the same peak.
Having said that, the thought behind the work that I do is to show just that. I want to not only make people comfortable with the darker side of the paranormal world but to educate them on the similarities and amalgamation of different faiths, while also showing them the common denominator: As with anything and everything in religion, spirituality, or faith of any kind, it all comes down to what you, the individual, believe.
6. How can others connect with you or get in touch with The D.E.A.D. Institute?
Mike: Over time, I will have a full-blown website available to access articles, courses, books, etc., but for now, the best (and only) way to reach me is on Instagram: @thedeadinstitute. I’m always open to questions and collaborations!
Questions on Demonology and Exorcisms
7. In your opinion, how do demons differ from other types of supernatural entities?
Mike: Most supernatural entities either are, or were at one time, an actual living being (take your classic ghost, for example). In most cases regarding demons, however (keeping in mind what religion or belief system you’re dealing with), they have never been a living being. They have always been a demonic entity from their creation. The same is actually true of angels as well (that doesn’t mean grandma isn’t looking down on you)!
8. How do you define a demonic possession, and what are the key signs that indicate one is occurring?
Mike: A demonic possession, or any spirit possession for that matter, put simply, is an altered state of consciousness wherein the spirit or demon takes control of the human body and its functions. In most cases, the person being possessed doesn’t have any memory of the events that took place during possession once that entity has been removed.
Key signs are sometimes difficult to discern because there can often be overlapping symptoms shared by mental illness. No matter the situation, the afflicted should always seek medical attention first.
In most cases, especially if it is a Catholic priest invited to give the Rite of Exorcism, a full psychiatric analysis must be performed before going any further. Also, in most cases, a psychiatrist is asked to be present during the exorcism to continually analyze the afflicted person’s mental state. An exorcism generally goes forward once the symptoms cannot be attributed to, or are beyond the known confines of mental illness.
With all of that put into perspective, the most common signs of demonic possession are violent mood swings, knowledge of unknown languages, and aversion to religious objects especially those which have been blessed, such as holy water or a crucifix.
9. What is your stance on the portrayal of demons and exorcisms in popular culture, such as movies and books?
Mike: While certain things portrayed are based on real events, like anything in the name of entertainment, a lot more is oversold for effect, which I totally understand. Most possession and exorcism cases are rather mundane in comparison, but who doesn’t want to see someone’s head spin around?
10. Can exorcisms be performed by anyone, or do they require specific knowledge, training, or spiritual authority?
Mike: This is a great question, and the answer is “YES.” Confused? Let me explain. I actually posted an explanation about this very topic on Instagram that I feel is worth checking out, but I’ll spare you the suspense!
This is very much an “It depends on what you believe” kind of thing. There is an argument for both sides. It would seem that the Roman Catholic Church has the market cornered on exorcisms. Going back to the last question, that is what’s sensationalized in movies and books. But the truth is that demonology and exorcism span across pretty much all religions and belief systems.
Going back to the Catholics for a moment, it is their belief that only a Catholic priest can perform exorcisms. Technically, any priest can perform the Rite, however, they prefer to send someone who has been properly trained at The Vatican. Either way, they must always be given permission by their Bishop to do so.
Now for the flip side. Being that demonology and exorcism span all religions and beliefs, it is argued that there is no guarantee that a demon is a Catholic or Christian demon. Maybe it’s a Buddhist demon, or a Hindu demon. Maybe it’s an Islamic demon! What good will a Catholic priest do if you are encountering a Hindu demon?
So, there is this concept of a “non-denominational exorcist” in which anyone can perform an exorcism. This should still not be taken lightly, however. Regardless of what your faith, or that of the afflicted, may be, it is imperative to have proper training and knowledge. It goes without saying that you have to know what you’re looking for and how to address it accordingly, all while keeping the health and welfare of the afflicted as your top priority.
This isn’t something you may want to toy with in the first place, as there are serious repercussions outside of the actual demon being dealt with. As you may have seen in the movie, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, which was based on the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, the priest who administered the Rite of Exorcism was tried for the girl’s death as a result of the actions taken. In the real case, two priests, along with Anneliese’s parents, were all convicted of negligent homicide. If two trained priests can find themselves facing prison for performing what was supposed to be an act of liberation, would it really be worth it to you as an “enthusiast” to try your hand at something so serious? There’s no room for ego in a situation like this.
11. Are there common misconceptions about exorcisms that you encounter in your
work?
Mike: Absolutely. The most common misconception is believing what they see in the movies. As previously stated, while some of the things you see carry some validity, the majority is given the Hollywood treatment. Aside from that, believe it or not, demonic possession is actually quite rare! There is no lack of people who will go visit their local priest to be exorcised, thinking they are possessed, but it is most likely, and most often, not the case.
12. How do you differentiate between psychological disorders and actual demonic possessions during your investigations?
Mike: Again, this is often difficult because there are so many similarities when it comes to symptoms. That’s why it is imperative to seek a psychiatric assessment from a professional. I can’t tell you how many so called “possession” cases involve an individual (almost always a younger female) with deeply rooted trauma, which includes such horrors as physical and sexual abuse. These traumas, aside from other mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, can definitely answer for a lot of the behaviour one exhibits during a supposed possession. These examples were even potential factors in the two cases I presented earlier regarding Anneliese Michel and Clara Germana Cele.
13. What advice would you give to someone who believes they or someone they know is dealing with a demonic entity?
Mike: If you feel you or someone you know are physically being possessed by a demonic entity, the first step is to seek medical attention. Through physicians and mental health professionals, you can start the process of ascertaining what your symptoms potentially indicate. If you feel that you aren’t finding any relief after your treatment, you may want to seek a religious leader to give their opinion of your case. Even if they believe an exorcism is necessary, they should still take the necessary medical steps to cover all bases and give you the best care possible. No matter the result, do your best to document everything you encounter during the ordeal. If you feel that your home is under attack by a demon or poltergeist, take steps to ensure the home is safe to continue inhabiting. You may want to stay elsewhere for a time until a resolution can be achieved. Document as much as you can, to include dates, times, locations, and specifics of the events you experience. The more information you have, the better. Make an attempt to record any incidents that may occur with audio, video, and/or still photography. Collect all of this evidence and visit your local religious leader and/or solicit the services of a paranormal expert.
Mikes Quick Tip: An honest paranormal expert should NEVER charge you for their services, aside from potential travel and lodging fees if they are coming from a long distance to assess your case.
A Really Big thanks to Mike for taking the time to share his incredible knowledge with us! Be sure to follow him and The D.E.A.D. Institute on Instagram @thedeadinstitute to keep up with his fascinating work on demonology and exorcism.
