Hypnosis
What is Hypnosis? Agreement: - A deep state of relaxation where an individual is more susceptible to suggestions and direction. Disagreement about cause/effect of hypnosis: (1) “altered state of consciousness” (2) “role-playing and hyper-suggestibility” Disagreement about how to induce hypnosis: - Relaxation? Focusing on an object? - Can anyone become an amateur hypnotist? Agree about who can be hypnotized: - Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scales - Stable across life? Related to personality traits?
Who uses Hypnosis? Therapist - Enhance or uncover memories - Age regression Law Enforcement - Enhance memories of crimes Entertainers - Entertain an audience You! - “zoning out” - Self-hypnosis
Research about Hypnosis? Therapist - Enhance or uncover memories -Age regression Law Enforcement -Enhance memories of crimes Entertainers -Entertain an audience You! - “zoning out” - Self-hypnosis - No differences between conditions -Testimonials, not reliable - Decide for yourself
Hypnosis for pain management? Effectively alleviates pain from chronic conditions Effectively alleviates acute pain Degree of relief sometimes exceeds morphine