---
category: Esoteric & Historical Concept
created: 2025-07-23
description: The Geller effect refers to the apparent ability of individuals to bend
  metal or influence electronic devices after witnessing Uri Geller perform such feats.
summary: The 'Geller Effect' refers to the phenomenon where individuals, particularly
  children and teenagers, reportedly become able to bend metal or influence electronic
  devices after witnessing Uri Geller perform such feats.
tags:
- concept
- psi
- psychokinesis
title: Geller Effect
updated: 2025-07-23
---

The "[Geller Effect](/concepts/geller-effect/)" refers to the phenomenon where individuals, particularly children and teenagers, reportedly become able to bend metal or influence electronic devices after witnessing [Uri Geller](/people/uri-geller/) perform such feats. This secondary effect of Geller's demonstrations was of interest to the [CIA](/organizations/central-intelligence-agency/) and the Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences, as it suggested a potential for widespread psychokinetic influence.[^1]

The Geller effect is an example of how the perception of a paranormal event can have real-world consequences, regardless of whether the initial event was genuine or the result of trickery. It highlights the power of belief and suggestion in the realm of psychic phenomena.[^1]

---

[^1]: Jacobsen, Annie. *Phenomena: The Secret History of the U.S. Government's Investigations into Extrasensory Perception and Psychokinesis*. Little, Brown and Company, 2017.