Changes in hypnotizability following experience

Abstract

90 Ss were given 3 sessions of hypnosis, the aim of which was to provide maximum opportunity and motivation for improving hypnotic performance. The procedure included discussion of attitudes toward hypnosis, positive education, and the tailoring of introduction procedures to Ss' descriptions of their own patterns of response. A significant gain was made on 8 items administered during the first and final sessions, with greatest gains occurring on Posthypnotic Amnesia, Moving Hands, and Hallucination Items. When Ss were grouped according to their initial responses as Very Low, Low, Medium, High, Very High, no significant differences in improvements among subgroups were found, but patterns of performance were rather different. It is suggested that there are qualitative differences among Ss which determine their ability to make use of hypnotic opportunities.