Buzz
For years, hypnosis has been a popular theme in direct-to-DVD films, comic books, TV series based on comics, and even Scooby-Doo episodes. However, the reality is that most people’s understanding of hypnosis comes not from factual knowledge, but from watching shows designed to entertain—stage performances that focus on spectacle without offering an accurate representation of what hypnosis truly is. In this journey, we will peel back the layers and explore the truth about hypnosis, separating the myth from reality.
10. Hypnotic Suggestibility
Hypnosis is a fascinating practice, often involving a highly suggestible state where individuals under hypnosis are more receptive to the suggestions of the hypnotist. Interestingly, some people are more suggestible than others. Research has shown that these individuals tend to experience more profound effects from hypnosis compared to those with lower suggestibility. It’s also important to note that these studies suggest that for individuals with low suggestibility, hypnosis may not be as effective or beneficial.
9. Stage Hypnosis
As highlighted earlier, popular culture has fostered a completely inaccurate view of hypnosis. This misconception often involves the idea of someone controlling another person, compelling them to perform wild stunts for an audience. This form of hypnosis, known as stage hypnosis, is primarily used for entertainment purposes. It is a mix of tricks, often involving participants who have been carefully selected for their susceptibility. The goal is to entertain the crowd, but it has little to do with the true nature of hypnosis. [Image: Stage Hypnosis show with Comedy Hypnotist Erick Kand]
8. Hypnotherapy
The primary application of hypnosis is Hypnotherapy, a practice used with willing patients to assist them in changing harmful behaviors or addressing distressing memories. Hypnotherapy works by inducing an unconscious shift in the patient, achieved by placing them in a highly suggestible state. The term hypnosis is derived from the Greek word hypnos, meaning sleep, which likely reflects the deep focus and relaxation experienced by those undergoing hypnosis. While some view hypnotherapy as a credible practice, others remain skeptical, often dismissing it as a modern, alternative treatment.
7. Auto Suggestion
It might surprise you to know that you don't necessarily need a hypnotist to experience hypnosis; you only need yourself and the right knowledge. This practice, known as auto-suggestion or self-hypnosis, enables you to tap into your unconscious mind to influence your behavior in ways that your conscious mind cannot. The technique was pioneered by a man named Coué, who authored a book titled “Self-Mastery Through Conscious,” in which he explained how to perform self-suggestion to achieve results that typically required the guidance of a hypnotist.
6. Hypnotic Induction
Hypnotic Induction refers to the process used to guide someone into a hypnotic state. When practicing auto-suggestion, this may involve listening to a recording, but in general, it encompasses the techniques used to induce the trance-like state needed for heightened suggestibility. On stage, a technique known as rapid induction is often used, as performers need to quickly engage their audience before they lose interest. This method works best when individuals with high suggestibility are pre-screened, making the process much simpler.
5. Memory
Anyone who has seen hypnotism depicted in entertainment probably expects the subject to forget much of what transpired during the hypnosis session. While there is some truth to this, it only happens if the hypnotized individual consciously wants to forget and if the suggestion is made by the hypnotist. It has been found that such memories can usually be retrieved with the right triggers, but the person under hypnosis is essentially blocking them unconsciously. Hypnosis is also frequently used to recover supposed repressed memories, although there is little to no verifiable evidence to support claims that memories of events like alien abductions or childhood abuse are genuine, or whether the person has simply convinced themselves of their occurrence.
4. Historical Use
Although hypnosis, or at least its modern-day portrayal, has become more popular in recent years, its history actually stretches much further back than one might think. Hypnosis is believed to have been used in the early 1800s as a form of anesthesia, referred to as hypnoanesthesia. But its origins go back even further. Evidence suggests that hypnosis was practiced as far back as 3000 years ago, with the Ancient Egyptians using it, and the Ancient Greeks also reportedly employing it in some capacity.
3. Consciousness
Although the term 'hypnos' is linked to sleep, you aren't actually asleep while in hypnosis. Contrary to common belief, you maintain full control of your actions and are completely awake the whole time. One experienced hypnotherapist sought to explore the possibility of using self-hypnosis to block pain during surgery. While we don't advise attempting this yourself, the hypnotherapist claims to have experienced little to no pain. However, this is based on personal testimony and lacks scientific validation. Still, the concept is intriguing, and it's not impossible that someone could temporarily deactivate their pain receptors.
2. Mastery of Self-Control
Self-hypnosis, as a concept, is often misinterpreted. A major misconception about hypnosis is that a hypnotist can control your actions. As we discussed earlier, hypnosis is a suggestible state, and some individuals are more susceptible to suggestion than others. A good hypnotist is like an effective therapist, ensuring that you understand they cannot force you to do anything you wouldn't normally choose to do. Any actions taken under hypnosis are ones you're willing to do, and they will never go against your personal values or beliefs. Think of it as a form of peer pressure: you may be more open to suggestions, but you are still in control of your decisions.
1. Official Recognition
In the 1950s, the American Medical Association (AMA) formed a council on mental health and approved hypnosis for use in both medical and psychological practices. However, by the 1980s, the AMA revoked this endorsement, deciding that hypnosis was not a legitimate medical tool after all. Nevertheless, some hypnotists continue to assert that the AMA supports their practices, likely to enhance their perceived legitimacy. This either stems from dishonesty or a failure to realize the approval was rescinded decades ago, and it reflects poorly on those who persist in making such claims.
