Hypnosis is a natural psychological process in which critical thinking faculties of the mind are bypassed and a type of selective thinking and perception is established. Hypnosis is used in therapy and as a form of live entertainment.
Therapeutic Applications
Hypnosis is typically used in three major areas: smoking cessation, weight management, and stress management.
Other clinical applications include working through depression, anxiety disorders (such as Panic Attacks and PTSD), pain management (including birthing), dental work, sports improvement, and phobias.
Modern Theories
- 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.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before beginning any hypnosis program.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Combined with emotional work, can be called "hypnotherapy"
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Fact:
Treatment allegedly brings subject to an altered state of consciousness
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Fact:
Typical session lasts 30 to 60 minutes
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Fact:
You are never asleep or "unconscious". You typically hear everything that is said.
