Imagination as a factor in hypnosis.

Abstract

Hypnotic phenomena have been known since ancient times but the nature of the trance is still debated. There are numerous theories presented in the literature, some bordering on the ridiculous. It is surprising, however, that attention has not been given to the one factor in the trance which appears to be most obvious : the operation of the imagination of the hypnotic subject. Hypnosis is not an abnormal or supernatural process. Normal people spontaneously experience hypnotic phenomena in situations such as listening to a symphony, driving on a long trip, fishing or daydreaming, when reality testing is temporarily suspended. Any person can be taught to develop a deep trance if he has a facile imagination, sufficient will to concentrate, intelligence to understand and follow instructions, and confidence in the ability and trustworthiness of the hypnotist. Contrary to general opinion, weak-willed, indecisive, oversuggestible persons do not make good hypnotic subjects. The ability in trance induction lies not so much with the hypnotist as with the subject. The trance is a state in which deliberately induced false perceptions become so vivid that they are accepted by the hypnotic subject as reality itself. This state is similar to that of the dreamer while he is experiencing the natural dream, or the psychotic person while he is hallucinating. The common factor is the presence of false perceptions which are the result of distortions of imagination. It is well known that psychotic and neurotic symptoms can be produced by hypnosis. Herein lies the greatest danger in the use of