Hypnosis



Hypnosis

Introduction

A presumed altered state of consciousness in which the hypnotized individual is usually more susceptible to suggestion than in his or her normal state. In this context, a suggestion is understood to be an idea or a communication carrying an idea that elicits a covert or overt response not mediated by the higher critical faculties (that is, the volitional apparatus).

Discussion

Many of the phenomena seen in association with hypnosis and suggestion can be observed to occur in situations that are not obviously ones involving hypnosis or suggestion. Some investigators have viewed this as indicating that there is no hypnosis or suggestion, ...