Effects of Two Language Modalities on Hypnotic Induction by Groups

Abstract

Twenty-six subjects (17 males — 9 females, ages 21 to 37 years) were assigned to two groups, each of which received three hypnotic inductions. Group 1 received hypnotic instructions in French, English and French respectively. Group 2 received the same instructions in English, French and English for each of the three sessions. The second language proficiency of the subject was of little value in predicting ability to be hypnotized in a second language. Self-predictions of hypnotizability according to language mode were poor predictors of ability to experience hypnosis. Hypnotic induction can be accomplished in the clinician's maternal language with persons who are less than fluent in that language. A second language may also be employed to induce hypnosis regardless of the clinician's fluency in that language.