...In this essay I will be explaining “what is hypnosis” by looking through various literature sources, internet sources and by using my own knowledge, I will include a brief history of hypnosis to aid this. I will then go on to describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis, followed by discussing the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. Hypnosis is a state of mind achieved using a set of techniques. The hypnotic state is natural for all human beings. Hypnosis enhances an individual’s concentration which increases their responsiveness to suggestion; this is due to when being in a hypnotic state the subconscious is the one that is more responsive to suggestion than when you are in a fully conscious state. The suggestion will travel directly to the subconscious where it will help the individual to make the necessary changes in their thought patterns, behaviours or physiological state. The history of hypnosis goes back as far as ancient Egypt, Australian aborigines, North American Indians and Hindu cultures; history indicates that every culture has used hypnosis in one form or another (Chrysalis 2010). In the 1700’s, an Austrian doctor called Franz Anton Mesmer recognised ancient healing techniques and used them in his theories. These theories included animal magnetism and a belief that cosmic fluid could be stored in inanimate objects such as magnets, and transferred to patients to cue them of any illness...
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...Below is a free essay on "What Is Hypnosis? Describe the Psychological Aspects of Hypnosis and Discuss the Role of Relaxation in Hypnotherapy" from Anti Essays, your source for free research papers, essays, and term paper examples. Name: Clare Whatley 2036 words Module Number: One (Year one) Course Code: BIRMI1S 12 ‘What is Hypnosis’ describe the psychological aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy. In this essay I am going to give a definition of what hypnosis is and what it isn’t. I will look at the nature of hypnosis and its role in society. I will give details of how and where hypnosis began and give some detail about the history. I will also discuss the psychological and physical aspects of hypnotherapy, including the important role of relaxation and how you can achieve it. This essay will show how effective hypnosis can be if a person is willing for it to work. Hypnosis is perceived very differently to different people. Some people will simply laugh at the theory of hypnotherapy and will refer to it as ‘Hypnotism’ that is performed on people in the same way as famous people in the media such as Paul McKenna or Derren Brown may perform it. Within science there is no debate as to whether hypnosis exists or works. Some people have strong beliefs in Hypnosis where as a percentage of people will simply say that it doesn’t work. It is true that it may infact not work for certain people. Only recently in this country has it started to...
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...Hypnotherapy is the mechanism used to access the unconscious mind and hypnosis is the induction of a trancelike state, resembling sleep, usually induced by a therapist and where the subject's receptivity to the power of suggestion is dramatically increased. According to The British Medical Association and the American Medical Association hypnosis is, "a temporary condition of altered attention in the subject that may be induced by another person.” Contrary to popular belief being in a state of hypnosis is not the same as being asleep. The uses of hypnosis in medicine and psychology include the modification or elimination of undesirable behaviour, such as smoking, and the treatment of certain chronic disorders, (anxiety), and phobias towards all sorts of everyday encounters, (spiders). In order to appreciate the whole area of hypnotherapy and how hypnosis is understood in the modern sense it is important to give a brief insight its history as hypnosis has been used for thousands of years for the purpose of healing and general well being. In ancient times hypnosis took many different forms, all making use of deep relaxation and trance to aid in the healing process. It wasn’t until the 1700’s, however, that Franz Anton Mesmer (1734-1815), a Viennese scientist believed that there was a cosmic liquid that flowed between people and as this was stimulated by magnets could be transmitted to others. He called this animal magnetism and even though there was no firm evidence that...
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...Introduction Hypnotherapy has often been associated with being strange and mysterious, curing people by unknown means. In order to explain what hypnosis is, this essay will be considering both the psychological and the physiological aspects of hypnosis. It will start with a brief history of hypnosis before explaining a person’s different states of mind and how these states of mind can be measured. It will then go on to discuss the importance of relaxation as a technique in order to establish the necessary state of mind of a client for hypnosis. The client being in this state of mind can then be used to make the beneficial changes that an individual may wish to make in their thought patterns, their behaviors or their physiological state through suggestion. By discussing the psychological and physiological aspects of hypnosis, the essay will reach a conclusion of “what is hypnosis?” Psychology of Hypnosis Historically, hypnosis could not be explained, it seemed that people were being cured by unknown means. Mesmer in the1770s believed that these unexplained cures were down to the laws of magnetism, placing magnets on patient’s bodies or filling tubs with water and iron rods that induced convulsions during his therapy. He believed that the convulsions released a block that a patient had in their fluid flow. Mesmer’s therapy, known as mesmerism, was observed by the Marquis de Puysegur who witnessed that the patients were falling asleep and that he could talk to them...
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...as a psychological aspect. When we think of hypnosis we cannot agree on a fixed definition as there are many theories which have their own explanations and opinions on what hypnosis means. It is also difficult to come to a definite definition as patients /subjects that have hypnosis are never going to have the same experience as another. The simplest yet fairly definition we have is “hypnosis is a complex phenomenon, the coming together of a number of psychological processes. It involves selective attention that is, the subject’s attention is focused on a limited range of stimuli, usually internal, such as feelings and imagery. It involves relaxation: almost invariably for clinical purposes (unless he or she is, say, experiencing some arousing imagery) is both mentally and physically relaxed” Heap and Dryden (1991:2). There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to hypnosis and what people think or believe about it and a majority or nearly all of them are not true. Hypnosis is not a person with special powers, or that we start relying on it and certainly not bad for your health, these are just a few examples of myths we are made to believe. We cannot understand the truth till we read and understand the history furthermore the influential depths of hypnotherapy. This essay will explore the question what hypnosis is and by looking into the history of hypnosis we can gain a better understanding of hypnosis furthermore how it has influenced modern practise and theories. ...
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...words 2003 What is Hypnosis? Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. For this essay I will start by looking at the question what is hypnosis? I will look at the way hypnosis is perceived and look at some of the reasons for this, a brief history of hypnosis and some of the individuals who have had a hand in shaping its path to what it is today. When describing the psychological and physical aspects I will look at personal experience along side information I have obtained from others plus medical research that has shown clear markers for an individual in a hypnotised state. Then to complete the essay I will discuss the role of relaxation in hypnosis and how and individuals level of relaxation is directly linked to their ability to be hypnotised. The answers you could receive will depend on who you ask, Hypnosis has been used for entertainment of the masses and for some this may be the only experience they have of the topic. The sight of the “Victim” behaving in a manner which appears to be out of character often resulting in them making a fool out of themselves for the entertainment of others but this is not in any way a true representation of what hypnosis can be. The fact is that Hypnosis has been used for human benefit for what could be argued as thousands of years in different forms, and this is what has enabled it to evolved over time especially with the increased understanding of neurological...
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...“What is Hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in Hypnotherapy The following addresses the question of what hypnosis is by exploring its origins and the evolution to modern day practice. The psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis will then be discussed along with the notable components of suggestion and trance. The vital role of relaxation is also pointed to. Hypnosis is a psychological phenomenon; a natural state of selective, focused attention, and even though it is natural, it remains one of the most fascinating phenomena of the human mind. There is much disagreement and misunderstanding on the subject and there are many different theories and definitions surrounding it. Before discussing the modern theory of hypnosis, it is important to understand where this phenomena has come from. Its earliest existence was found among shamans or witch doctors as they were more commonly known. Shaman would follow strict practices which allowed them to have a strong focus, and these were often accompanied with monotonous and rhythmic chants or drum beats for example. This allowed their subconscious mind to focus and seek out the soul of the patient to heal them. Mesmer (1733-1815) recognised this healing practice and incorporated into his theory of animal magnetism. He believed that a cosmic fluid existed in inanimate objects which was transferred into patients to heal them. Mesmer literally mesmerised...
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...“What is Hypnosis?” Describe the psychological and physical aspects of hypnosis and discuss the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. Main Essay Introduction; In this essay I intend to provide a brief history and background to hypnosis, cover both the psychological and physical aspect of hypnosis and conclude with the role of relaxation in hypnotherapy. Hypnosis has frequently been linked with the strange and mysterious, it could also be argued that it has been discredited by entertainers. The truth is that hypnosis isn’t the least bit mysterious or supernatural. In fact, we all have been in an hypnotic state probably thousands of times. We don’t notice it because it seems like such a natural state of mind and the hypnotic state is natural for all humans and many animals. The history of hypnosis is full of contradictions. On the one hand, the history of hypnosis is a bit like the history of breathing. Like breathing, hypnosis is an inherent and universal trait, shared and experienced by all human beings since the dawn of time. On the other hand, it’s only in the last few decades that we’ve come to realise that hypnosis itself hasn’t changed for thousands of years, but our understanding of it and our ability to control it has changed quite profoundly. The history of hypnosis then is really the history of this change in perception. Many people have concerns that hypnosis could make them do something that they would not normally do, something embarrassing, shocking or even...
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...However, there is no evidence that hypnosis has long-term effects (Bloodstein & Bernstein Ratner, 2008; Van Riper, 1973). As with all stuttering treatments, transfer and maintenance are challenges faced by hypnotherapy (Bloodstein & Bernstein Ratner, 2008; Van Riper, 1973). Studies demonstrating the efficacy of hypnosis as a treatment for stuttering are flawed. In most, stuttering severity pre- and post-treatment and long-term outcomes are not measured at all or are measured in ways that do not meet basic reliability standards (e.g. Lockhart & Robertson, 1977; Moss & Oakley, 1997). In two recent studies, PWS who received hypnotherapy reported no long-term benefits and low levels of satisfaction (Euler, Lange, Schroeder, & Neumann, 2014; Yaruss...
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... and patients with lung and other poor-outlook cancers are particularly vulnerable. Et al Barrie (2007) The advantages of integrative hypnotherapy is it can cover so many...
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...Choose a medical condition that interest you and research it. Write about the possible use of hypnosis in the treatment of the condition as you see it. Osteoarthritis The condition I have chosen is Osteoarthritis (OA). Arthritis means inflammation of the joints and osteoarthritis is the most common form In UK. It affects the joint cartilage and the bone tissue next to the cartilage. To appreciate the effect of this we need firstly to understand how the joint works. A joint is where two bones meet. Joints allow movement and flexibility of various parts of the body. The movement of the bones is caused by muscles which pull on tendons that are attached to bone. Cartilage is a hard, smooth tissue that covers the end of bones. Between the cartilages of two bones which form a joint, there is a small amount of thick fluid called synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates the joint which allows smooth movement between the bones. The synovial fluid is made by the synovium. This is the tissue that surrounds the joint. The outer part of the synovium is called the capsule. This is tough and helps to give the joint stability. Surrounding ligaments and muscles also help to give support and stability to joints. We know need to understand how osteoarthritis is caused. All normal joints and joint tissues are constantly undergoing some form of repair because of the wear and tear that is placed on them through our daily activities. However, in...
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...Why is the initial consultation so important? What factors will an ethical therapist cover at this time? In this essay I will be exploring the various issues raised when a therapist initially meets a new client, including ascertaining personal circumstances and applying ethical and safe practise. I will also be looking at the importance of communication and understanding between client and practitioner. When a therapist first meets with a new client it’s necessary to establish several things in order to know whether they can work together. These include background and personal circumstances of the client, previous experiences (if any) of therapy, medical and psychiatric history and very importantly, why they are seeking therapy. This first conversation is also an opportunity for the client to ask any questions they may have and to discuss the details of how the sessions will potentially work. If the therapist is happy that they can begin a therapeutic relationship with that person they can then go on to establish which modality they are most lead by in order to create the best screed and approach and also how susceptible they may be to hypnosis. There are several ways to determine this and some are more suitable than others in terms of time constraints while in consultation. A practitioner may wish to use the Balloon/Lead Test or the Eye Roll Test as these are most suitable for use in this environment. The problem with using tests to try and discover if someone is...
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...functioning where the dreamer has the awareness that he is dreaming. This state is said to be conducive for gaining insight into and awareness of the unconscious and is a technique in mystic training. 3. Hypnosis This state is characterized by increased suggestibility and surrender of one's will. HYPNOSIS Hypnosis is a mental state or imaginative role-enactment it is usually induced by a procedure known as a hypnotic induction, which is commonly composed of a long series of preliminary instructions and suggestions. Hypnotic suggestions may be delivered by a hypnotist in the presence of the subject, or may be self-administered ("self-suggestion" or "autosuggestion"). The use of hypnotism for therapeutic purposes is referred to as "hypnotherapy", while its use as a form of entertainment for an audience is known as "stage hypnosis". Hypnosis has often been carved into two separate elements - 'Trance' and Suggestion Figure: Separation of hypnotic 'trance' and suggestion can be a useful way of thinking about the effects of hypnosis THEORIES OF HYPNOSIS There are three major theories of hypnosis used for research – the Social Cognitive perspective, Neo...
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...Why is the initial consultation so important? What factors will an ethical therapist cover at this time? There are a multitude of factors that a therapist must consider during the initial consultation. I will describe the procedures of the consultation, the ethical considerations facing the therapist and the particular challenges of the actual consultation itself. As outlined in my previous essay, the initial consultation is perhaps the most important part of the hypnotherapy process. People are different in many ways. They have different likes and dislikes, cultural backgrounds and upbringings. These factors have provided us with different outlooks, values and perspectives. Therefore there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to hypnotherapy. Personality types, suggestibility and the reason the client has come to you all have an effect on the way they will respond to hypnotherapy, and this all must be taken into account when planning a session. Every person is different and will respond to very different styles of hypnotherapy. We all see the same things, but interpret it differently, and we respond to stimuli in a unique way. What works for one client may have no effect on another, therefore hypnotic inductions must be personalised to suit everyone's needs. It is during the consultation that the therapist gathers all the information needed to write a successful screed which is personalised to the client. At this time, the therapist will assess a client’s personality...
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...describe your treatment plan. What ethical issues might arise? Introduction This essay will explore the issues Ms E presents and devise a course of treatment that will support her treatment goal of weight loss. Ethical questions will be discussed as will other issues raised as part of the initial assessment. Background Ms E is a 29 year old single woman who is looking to lose two and half stone in weight. She came out of a failed relationship six months ago and feels she is now ready to find another partner. Her previous partner of six years was very controlling and she believes her ex partner wanted her to remain overweight. This has left her feeling frightened about entering into a new relationship. She has struggled with her weight since age of twelve/thirteen. Her parents badgered about being overweight and eating too much. She has a history of dieting and weight gain post diet. She is planning to go on vacation with her girlfriends in three months time and hopes she can have lost weight by then. Initial Consultation The purpose of the initial consultation with Ms E was to ascertain her reasons for attending and to ensure she had a full understanding hypnotherapy as a treatment option. Heap (2012) describes the relationship between hypnotherapist and client as one of ‘warmth, trust and mutual positive regard’. Heap goes on to state the importance of ensuring the client has a clear understanding of what hypnotherapy is and their reasons for selecting...
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