One of the things that comes up over and over with my new clients is that they tell me «I fully believe in hypnosis».
Now while this is a great gesture at the beginning of a hypnosis sessions it shows me that many people still think, that hypnosis is something you have to believe in for it to work and thus it would fall into a category of things that are not or cannot be scientifically proven.
The general knowledge about hypnosis is stuck between 1850 and 1930. That is why still many people search for «Does hypnosis exist?» or «Can hypnosis work?» and are generally confused about how scientifically proven hypnosis is.
That is why I have decided to make this article about the Science of Hypnosis, where I collect studies that prove hypnosis and it`s effects.
The article has three sections: One is about hypnosis in general and the other is about hypnotherapy as a treatment for different issues and the third one is about things that are scientifically proven but not directly in connection with hypnosis. I also try to make the questions more and more advanced the further down we go.
All in all the conclusion is: Hypnosis is a scientifically studied phenomenon with real therapeutic potential, though it is often misunderstood.
Hypnosis does have a scientific basis, and a growing body of research supports its effectiveness in various therapeutic contexts. Neuroscientific research has identified differences in brain activity during hypnosis compared to when individuals are faking responses, indicating that the effects of hypnosis are genuine and not merely the result of suggestion or imagination.1
Hypnosis induces significant changes in brain activity and connectivity, leading to a unique state of consciousness characterized by focused attention and reduced awareness of peripheral stimuli. Various studies employing neuroimaging techniques have revealed distinct patterns in brain function during hypnosis.
The hypnotic trance is a distinctive brain state characterized by reduced self-awareness, altered connectivity among brain networks, and specific changes in brain wave patterns. These alterations facilitate a heightened responsiveness to suggestions. 2
Hypnosis is a complex phenomenon that can be understood from both psychological and physiological perspectives. It involves a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation, often leading to altered perceptions and sensations.
From a psychological standpoint, hypnosis is often viewed as a state of consciousness that allows for increased suggestibility and the ability to access memories or thoughts that may not be readily available in a normal waking state. Key aspects include:
Physiologically, hypnosis involves distinct changes in brain activity and bodily functions. Research using neuroimaging techniques has provided insights into what occurs in the brain during hypnosis:
The hypnotic state is characterized by several key features:
The hypnotic state is also very comparable with the brain state that meditation induces3. Therefore it is possible to take research made with meditation and apply it to hypnosis.
The scientific study of hypnosis began in the late 18th century with the work of Franz Mesmer, a German physician who introduced the concept of "animal magnetism" as a means of treating patients.
These improvements in scientific knowledge highlight the evolution of hypnosis from a mysterious occult force to a scientifically studied phenomenon with various applications in medicine and psychology.
The effectiveness of hypnosis has been extensively studied through various meta-analyses and systematic reviews to show that Yes, hyponsis does work.
Here’s a summary of the findings regarding the effectiveness of hypnosis based on recent research:
A systematic review of 49 meta-analyses covering 261 distinct primary studies indicates that hypnosis is effective for a variety of mental and somatic health issues. The findings suggest that hypnosis can positively impact treatment outcomes, particularly in stress reduction and enhancing overall well-being 4 5.
Generally almost everyone is hypnotizable6 if they have a healthy brain, but the greatest difference is in how easy the hypnotic state is achieved. This is also called hypnotizability7.
Key points about hypnotizability:
So it is important to know that hypnotizability can be trained (I like to call it the "trance muscle") and people can improve the effect of hypnotic suggestions with self hypnosis.
It is also important to note, that hypnotisability tests are standardised to be as accurate as possible, but still this leaves room to miss people who have different ways of going into trance. So in general we can say that no one is immune to hypnosis, it just has different effects.
The relationship between hypnosis and the placebo effect has been a topic of considerable interest in psychological and medical research. While both phenomena involve the power of suggestion and can lead to genuine therapeutic outcomes, they are distinct in their mechanisms and effects.
Hypnosis is not merely a placebo; it is a distinct therapeutic approach that can produce genuine results8.
Now while these are not especialyl scientific they show what is possible with hypnosis:
As something that seems so mysterious and was so misunderstood for so long it is not surprising that many myths in the field of hypnosis are about the dangers of hypnosis.
Hypnosis is generally considered safe11, but still you should be aware of the potential risks.
The potential dangers of hypnosis are not severe compared to other methods of treatment but they should still be considered. With a powerful tool you can do nonsense, no matter how safe and effective it is.
The best way to mitigate these risks is by getting hypnotized by a trained and experienced hypnotherapist.
Because hypnosis is a natural state of your brain12, which occurs naturally during everyone's day, you can come out of it naturally without any issue. The worst thing that can happen, with self-hypnosis audios for example, is that you fall asleep and wake up after a few hours. But you cannot get stuck in hypnosis.
During hypnosis, the subconscious mind is more in charge than the conscious mind. This might look and sometimes even feel like an outside influence but it is still you. Just the other you.
Hypnosis has a wide range of clinical applications, effectively treating various psychological and physical conditions. Here’s an overview of some key areas where hypnosis is utilized, supported by scientific studies:
Hypnosis is widely recognized for its effectiveness in managing pain13 14. A meta-analysis found that hypnosis significantly reduces pain levels in various conditions, including chronic pain and postoperative pain15. A Study has shown that it can be more effective than traditional pain management techniques, such as physical therapy, particularly for chronic low back pain16.
Numerous studies demonstrate that hypnosis can effectively reduce anxiety17. Hypnosis helps individuals manage stress by inducing relaxation and teaching coping strategies.
Hypnosis has been recognized as an effective method for stress reduction, with various studies and reviews supporting its benefits. A systematic review evaluated randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating hypnosis for stress reduction. Out of nine studies included, six reported significant positive effects of hypnosis on perceived stress levels compared to control groups 18.
Hypnosis has been shown to address underlying emotional issues contributing to depression. A meta-analysis indicated that hypnosis reduced depressive symptoms effectively, with some studies suggesting it may be more effective than CBT for major depressive disorder19.
Hypnosis is effective in treating phobias by desensitizing individuals to feared objects or situations20. Overall, hypnosis is a valuable tool for treating phobias, especially when combined with other therapeutic modalities. It not only helps reduce anxiety and fear but also empowers individuals to confront and manage their phobias more effectively.
Hypnosis can serve as an adjunct to traditional addiction treatments, addressing underlying emotional issues and reducing cravings. Research indicates that hypnosis can effectively reduce addictive behaviors21 22.
Hypnosis can improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and better sleep habits. It has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia, helping individuals achieve deeper and more restful sleep.
Hypnosis has been found to be effective in managing symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and discomfort. Studies indicate that hypnotherapy can lead to significant improvements in IBS symptoms and overall quality of life.
Hypnosis can address emotional eating and promote healthy habits that lead to weight loss. Research supports its effectiveness in helping individuals modify their behaviors related to eating and weight management.
Hypnosis is used to improve performance in various areas, such as sports, public speaking, and test-taking. It helps individuals enhance focus, reduce anxiety, and improve self-confidence.
Hypnosis can be utilized to address unresolved emotional issues related to trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It aids in processing traumatic memories and reducing associated symptoms.
While hypnosis has only been studied directly in relation to gambling in the form of self-hypnosis, it has show to be helpful to improve the speed of change and the continuity of abstinence23
Looking at the body of studies that have been done on hypnosis reveals it as a powerful method and state grounded in scientific research. Through decades of studies, we’ve learned that hypnosis is not a form of mind control or magic but a legitimate psychological tool that can alter perceptions, behaviors, and physiological responses. Its applications in treating conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and addiction highlight its potential.
While not everyone is hypnotisable from the get-go research shows that most people can experience its effects to some degree. Also studies show that it can be improved with training. Also the variability in hypnotizability is not a barrier for some people but in highlights that tailored approaches in hypnotherapy are the most important for success.
As we continue to explore its mechanisms and applications, the future of hypnosis looks promising, especially as it becomes increasingly integrated into mainstream medical and psychological practices and thus the common knowledge gets updated (maybe to the scientific 1980 soon).
In summary, hypnosis is more than just an intriguing subject—it’s a scientifically validated tool with real-world applications. As we advance our understanding, it’s crucial to continue dispelling myths and embracing the evidence-based potential of hypnosis in improving lives.
