When several individuals, independently or simultaneously, observe the same phantom under conditions that make deception or suggestion unlikely, the event can no longer be interpreted as a totally subjective experience.

Collective cases of this sort account for approximately eight percent of the total number of reported apparitions. Naturally, many times only one person is present to see the phantom. Collective cases are more common when several potential observers are present. In a group situation, if one person sees an apparition, there is about a forty percent likelihood that others will share his perception.