The creative use of unexpected responses in the hypnotherapy of patients with conversion disorders

Abstract

In a previously completed empirical study examining the use of hypnosis in a comprehensive treatment program with 85 patients who suffered motor conversion symptoms, 16 patients were reported by their therapists to have had unusual and unexpected responses during hypnosis. This article summarizes the literature on the occurrence of unintended phenomena during hypnosis and presents instances encountered in a study of conversion hysterics. The article illustrates these occurrences and their management with 7 clinical vignettes and concludes that surprising or unusual responses to hypnosis with these types of cases can be an opportunity for the patient to enhance understanding and gain control over his or her symptoms.