Susan,

You're out of your element on the science.

Even without the science, there are plenty of examples of superstitious behavior that's part of one's mannerisms, but does no harm. Really outstanding American baseball players and other professional athletes are especially prone to such behavior--using the same bat, wearing the exact same clothes, eating the same breakfast on game days,not shaving etc. There are also examples of superstitious behavior that derails a person's life. After being in a car accident, some are no longer willing to drive. There's a whole list of superstitions that bring bad luck--and when they occur, people can get very depressed. Some refuse to leave the house.

In animal studies, there are very powerful examples in which one or more traumatic event lead to learned helplessness--an unwillingness to venture out.

Spiritual people, people who believe in God don't typically exhibit superstitious behavior--especially the kind that leads to fear and withdrawal. Devil worshipers--maybe. Evangelistic atheists? You tell me. Are you willing to walk under a ladder? What about tipping a salt shaker over? A black cat crossing your path? Breaking a mirror?

Ray