Hypnotic Paradigm-Substitution Therapy in a Case of Hypochondriasis

Abstract

Physical complaints and avoidance behavior (lying on a sofa) decreased and positive social behaviors increased in a hypochondriacal patient following hypnotic “paradigm-substitution” therapy, a technique in which more adaptive “mental health” beliefs emphasizing interpersonal themes were suggested to be acted upon posthypnotically in place of the patient's “physical illness” beliefs. There was no recurrence or substitution of symptoms one year after treatment.