The Myths and Truths of Hypnosis

The Myths:

1. A hypnotist has power over you.
2. You can be given posthypnotic suggestions to do something against your moral code.
3. If I go into trance, I will not wake up.
4. Only certain people can be hypnotized.
5. Hypnosis is anti-religious.
6. A posthypnotic state lasts forever.

The Truth:

1. No one can be hypnotized against their will.
2. A hypnotized person will not do anything against their will. You are always in control.
3. Hypnosis is not sleep, mind control, or even magic.
4. Hypnosis is a totally natural recurring state of mind.
5. There are no religious connotations associated with Hypnosis.
6. The key to hypnosis is repetition and posthypnotic suggestions are usually temporary unless reinforced.

Contrary to popular belief, almost everyone can be hypnotized.

These are some exceptions:

• Children under six because of shorter-term ability to focus/concentrate;
• Psychotics the mentally disturbed have difficulty focusing/concentrating, are confused in their thinking, and it is difficult to establish a rapport because of their disturbed condition;
• Mentally deficient/retarded, i.e., those with I.Q. scores less than 70; and
• Paranoid people because of suspicious nature and high level of distrust.