The history of the poltergeist may be traced as far back as Roman times. Poltergeist's have been studied extensively by parapsychologists and various theories have been put forward.
Reports of poltergeist disturbances cite loud noises, lights, smells, physical and sexual assault, and telephones ringing. Poltergeist activity stops as sudden as it starts.
It may last anywhere from a few hours to a few years. Activity usually takes place when a particular individual is present.
Usually the poltergeist will focus the attention at a young girl under the age of 16. These days some people suggest that poltergeist activity is caused by an unconscious form of psychokinesis.