Hypnotic responsivity as a predictor of outcome in meditation

Abstract

This study tested the hypothesis that measures of hypnotic responsivity would predict outcome from brief meditation training. 58 Ss were matched on hypnotic responsivity and randomly assigned to meditation and control conditions. The Ss in the meditation group displayed significantly greater decreases in trait anxiety than control Ss following a 1-week treatment period. The Ss highest in hypnotic responsivity showed the most substantial decrements in anxiety. It is concluded that hypnotic responsivity is moderately predictive of outcome in meditation. Findings were also consistent with reports that hypnotic responsivity is not increased by practice in meditation.