Introductory psychologyLesson 6 of 6 in the course States of Consciousness

Hypnosis and Meditation: Attention, Theories, and Uses

5 flashcards · 4 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness marked by focused attention and reduced attention to outside stimuli. This lesson explores what hypnosis involves, how it is induced, its therapeutic uses, and two theories that explain how it works.

Hypnosis is a state of extreme self-focus and attention in which a person gives minimal attention to external stimuli. In a therapeutic setting, a trained clinician may use relaxation and suggestion to try to alter a patient's thoughts or perceptions. Brain-imaging research has found that hypnotic states are associated with broad changes in brain functioning.

All flashcards

How is hypnosis defined?
A state of extreme self-focus and attention in which minimal attention is given to external stimuli.
What are the four common components of a hypnosis induction?
Focused attention, comfort and relaxation, openness and trust, and imagination.
What does the dissociation theory propose about hypnosis?
Some mental processes may operate separately from a person's conscious awareness.
What is meditation?
Focusing on a target to increase awareness of the present moment.
What characterizes mindfulness meditation?
Attention is directed to an internal process or external object and returned when it wanders.

Quiz questions

  1. Which aim best describes meditation?Answer: Using focused attention to increase awareness of the present moment.
  2. In mindfulness meditation, what does a practitioner do when attention wanders?Answer: Return attention to the chosen internal or external focus.
  3. Which comparison between meditation and hypnosis is most accurate?Answer: Meditation can be practiced independently; hypnosis commonly involves guidance and suggestion.
  4. Which statement best reflects the notes on hypnosis as a therapeutic tool?Answer: It may support several treatments, but results vary and improvements are not guaranteed.

Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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