Abstract
Experimental research on hypnosis, particularly that performed within the last 20 years, is reviewed, and hypnosis as an altered state of consciousness (ASC) is assessed in the light of the proposed characteristics of ASCs. The contemporary theories of Barber, Hilgard, Orne and Shor, which were formulated from this experimental work, are critically evaluated and classified as either supporting the state or non-state issue. Finally, a proposal is presented which views hypnosis as a regressed state in which there is an alteration between the various levels of consciousness. This alteration produces a change in mental functioning of a sufficient deviation from normal to be considered as an ASC.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 7-25 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Journal | Australian Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis |
| Volume | 7 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1979 |