Well I wouldn't say they are real, atleast in this world. Usually, people think and think about it and end up convincing them selves that there is such a thing like a ghost, or spirit.. But,.. maybe it's just that they miss someone, so their mind tricks them into thinking that they are actually seeing a relative or friend.. I don't really know, I do believe in God, and the Devil... but i'm pretty sure God wouldn't give the devil that much power XD But if they are real, they can't hert U.. Only U can hert yourself by running into a wall scraed to death, or going into the nuthouse because U say there is ghosts, just ignore them... then maybe they'll go away?,... besides.. most kids grow up and lose their fears of beliefs of these.. so!.. U can choose to believe, or not believe.