third man syndrome
Type: Concept
As of November 2026, third man syndrome has been mentioned in one podcast episode on Stuff You Should Know (Nov 2025). The episode explains the phenomenon of sensing an additional presence during extreme stress, using multiple survival accounts and possible explanations.
The third man factor, third man effect, or third person syndrome refers to reported situations where a perceived unseen presence, such as a spirit, provides comfort or support during a traumatic experience. It is most commonly experienced by mountain climbers. Solo sailors, shipwreck survivors, and polar explorers are also known to have reported the phenomenon.
| Mentioned in | 1 episode on 1 podcast (as of November 2026) |
|---|---|
| First heard | Nov 2025 on Stuff You Should Know |
| Field | psychology / anomalous experiences |
Who talks about third man syndrome on podcasts?
Josh Clark brought up third man syndrome; the most recent mention was Nov 2025 on Stuff You Should Know.
- Short Stuff: Third Man Syndrome | STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW on Stuff You Should Know (Nov 2025) — Josh Clark
What is third man syndrome mentioned alongside?
third man syndrome is most often mentioned alongside bicameral mind theory, Thomas Stearns Eliot and Ernest Shackleton.
Influenced by: bicameral mind theory
Influence on: Thomas Stearns Eliot, Ernest Shackleton