Hypnosis and Meditation

Hypnosis (James Braid)

A systematic procedure that increases suggestibility.

Traits are linked to hypnotic susceptibility

High absorption, rich fantasy life, and imagination.

Two main theories of hypnosis

• Role enactment: People play the role of a hypnotic subject.

• Altered state: Hypnosis is a dissociated state of consciousness.

Myths about hypnosis

• Cannot regress to past lives.

• Cannot make people act against their will.

• Cannot recover lost memories.

Two types of meditation

• Focused attention: Concentrating on a single object or thought (e.g., Zen).

• Open monitoring: Observing thoughts non-judgmentally (e.g., mindfulness).

Benefits of meditation

• Cognitive: Improved attention and memory.

• Emotional: Reduced anxiety and depression.

• Physical: Lower blood pressure and enhanced pain tolerance.

What evidence supports meditation benefits?

• Brain imaging shows changes in executive function.

• EEG studies show increased alpha and theta waves.

• Both heart rate and skin conductance decline during meditation.

• Individuals who meditate have increased thickness in brain areas associated with pain.

  
  

  
  

Role enactment theory of hypnosis

Hypnosis is a normal state where suggestible people act out a role

Example: A person uses breathing techniques to calm anxiety. What type of meditation is this?

Mindfulness meditation.

Alpha waves

Brain wave pattern typically associated with meditation

How much of the population doesnt respond to hypnosis

15%