Altered states of consciousness and hypnosis: A discussion

This article argues that researchers and clinicians in hypnosis should engage with current research on altered states of consciousness. The author recounts a 1975 symposium that brought together experts from neurophysiology, cognitive theory, and psychoanalytic ego psychology. The text critically evaluates and attempts to integrate findings from meditative researchers Davidson and Goleman, Daniel Brown, altered states model-maker Roland Fischer, hypnotherapist Sacerdote, and generalist Krippner. A short summary of the author's own new ego-psychological theory of hypnosis and 12 other altered states of consciousness is also presented.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract The author explains why it is important at this juncture in time to acquaint researchers and clinicians in the field of hypnosis with the current serious research in altered states of consciousness, and vice versa. In a 1975 SCEH symposium, the author brought together both well-established and young researchers coming from orientations as widely differing as neurophysiology, cognitive theory, and psychoanalytic ego psychology. This discussion summarizes, critically evaluates, and attempts to integrate with each other the findings of meditative researchers, Davidson and Goleman, and Daniel Brown; the altered states of consciousness model-maker, Roland Fischer; the hypnotherapist, Sacerdote; and the generalist in altered states of consciousness and hypnosis, Krippner. A short summary of the author's own new ego-psychological theory of hypnosis and 12 other altered states of consciousness is also presented.