Hypnosis

Question 1

Franz Anton Mesmer

Answer 1

-theorized “animal magnetism” which is now called “mesmerism”

Question 2

James Braid

Answer 2

-Scottish surgeon and a pioneer investigator of hypnosis
-hypnotism as anesthesia

Question 3

Hypnotism: early roots

Answer 3

early interest began as a treatment

Question 4

Hypnotism (definition)

Answer 4

a method to induce an elevated state of suggestibility via repetitive words and actions

Question 5

Effects of hypnotism (in a treatment sense)

Answer 5

-anesthesia (numb feeling)
-sensory distortions (floaty feeling)
-hallucinations
-disinhibition (care-free)
-amnesia (to forget)
-posthypnotic suggestions (encouragement for an action)

Question 6

REALITY CHECK: are those under hypnosis faking it?

Answer 6

misconception: those under hypnosis are faking it, or just showing compliance.

reality: physiological responses (brain waves) indicate that subjects generally are not lying.

Question 7

Hypnosis: theories (non-state)

Answer 7

non-state theories:
-hypnosis is not a unique state
-subjects are play acting

evidence:
-hypnotic feats are overstated (exaggerated)
-demos verify role play (compliance)

Question 8

Hypnosis: theories (state)

Answer 8

state theories:
-hypnosis is an alternative state of consciousness
-split consciousness (e.g., highway hypnosis; driving & forgetting)
-dissociation

evidence:
-brain imaging data via EEG (brain wave activity is different under hypnosis)

Question 9

Assessment for hypnotic suggestibility/susceptibility

Answer 9

arm levitation test (demonstrated in class)