The third man factor, also called the third man effect or third person syndrome, refers to reported situations in which a person in extreme physical or psychological distress perceives an unseen presence, sometimes described as spirit-like, that offers comfort or support during the ordeal. It is most often reported by mountain climbers, though solo sailors, survivors of shipwrecks and polar explorers have also described the same experience.
Facts
Partially Attested
First Described YearThe earliest account cited by the source is Shackleton's 1919 book South, describing events of the 1914-1917 Antarctic expedition; the concept was popularized by John G. Geiger in a 2009 book. Core ClaimReported situations in which a perceived unseen presence, such as a spirit, provides comfort or support during a traumatic experience. 1 Sources
1. Wikipedia: Third man factor
Lead, first sentence
such as a spirit, provides comfort or support during a traumatic experience.
History section, paragraph on Ernest Shackleton
Sir Ernest Shackleton, in his 1919 book
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