Hypnosis

Disclaimer:

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before beginning any Hypnosis program.

Guide Note

Hypnosis refers to a sleep-like condition whose exact nature is controversial. When "under" hypnosis, a subject is susceptible to manipulation in the form of hypnotic suggestion. Hypnosis is popularly used in therapy and as a form of live entertainment.

Therapeutic Applications

Hypnosis is claimed to help the following conditions Stress, Anxiety Disorders, Weight Loss, Nicotine Addiction and High Blood Pressure

Theories

Animal magnetism: The 18th Century physician Franz Mesmer characterized hypnosis as a sort of magic power exercised by the hypnotist over the subject.

Neo-disassociation theory: Applied to hypnosis in the 1970s, this theory suggests that subject is in state of "divided consciousness," in which different layers of awareness are separated from one another.

Socio-cognitive theory: This holds that hypnosis doesn't exist as a separate state of consciousness, but is based on social interactions and expectations between subject and hypnotist.

Interactive-Phenomenological theory: This puts forth the idea that hypnosis is governed by social interactions, as well as the attitudes and expectations of the subject, but does in fact exist as a unique state of consciousness.

Fast Facts

1. Also known as hypnotherapy or hypnotic suggestion
2. Treatment allegedly brings subject to an altered state of consciousness
3. Attention is more focused, more open, and more responsive to suggestions
4. Typical session lasts 30 to 60 minutes