The Lunar Effect, Fact or Fiction?

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Updated: 10:48 PM Nov 2, 2009 The Lunar Effect, Fact or Fiction? A full moon is expected to light up the sky, but will that light bring some darkness? Posted: 3:54 PM Nov 2, 2009 Reporter: Margo Spann Email Address: mspann@wsaw.com

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A full moon is expected to light up the sky, but will that light bring some darkness?

A common superstition says accidents, natural disasters, and bizarre crimes increase during a full moon.

One Psychology professor says there is no scientific evidence to support a connection between the moon and our moods.

The UW-Marathon County Professor has worked in the Psychology field for more than 20 years.

He says for centuries, our culture has relied on the urban legend known as "The Lunar Effect" to explain the unexplainable.

The Professor says the lack of scientific proof doesn't mean the urban legend isn't true.

"It's probably not the type of things studied by scientists because they may not take it seriously," says Asst. Prof. Marlowe Embree.

He says the belief will continue to exist because most people only pay attention to things that support their belief and things that don't, just fade into the background.

He also says people like to find an explanation for things, so the cultural notion linking full moons to bizarre events or behavior will continue.

In case you are wondering when the next time you can catch a full moon is, mark your calendars for one month from today.

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