The Effect of Suggestion on Past-Lives Regression

Abstract

Sixty undergraduates, divided into three groups of 20 Ss each, were hypnotized and attempts were made to age regress them to previous lifetimes. Before each hypnosis session taped suggestions supportive of age regression and past-lives therapy and encouraging Ss to comply were given to Group A. Neutral and noncommittal statements about past-lives regression were furnished Group B and skeptical and derogatory statements were played for Group C. Results of the age regression attempts clearly showed the effects of the prior suggestions. Statistically significant differences were obtained in the number of past-lives recalled with Ss in Group A showing the most and Ss in Group C the least. Implications for therapy and further research are discussed.