Is hypnosis a proven phenomenon?

Question

Has it been scientifically proven, for example in proper lab conditions with conclusive results?

Or is it nonesense believed only by the gullible?

I'm not talking about helping people to quit smoking or get over a phobia, cos that's impossible to distinguish from some kind of placebo effect.

I'm talking about things like people thinking they are chickens or revealing information involuntarily, or barking like a dog when someone claps their hands...

That kind of stuff, and then not having any memory of it.

Also, does anyone have any first had experience of these things?

Answer 1

must be summit in it having an operation under hypnosis weird!!

Answer 2

I love using hypnosis.  I'm pretty new in the field but got started from this guide:  http://www.ReviewHypnosis.com

He reviews most of the courses pretty well.

Answer 3

Yes, it is absolutely proven many times over. It is learned and taught mainly in psychotherapy and other forms of psychiatry where it can be useful in inducing a deep state of relaxation and inner focus. In this mind state, it is possible to create the conditions that allow a person to make changes in their behaviour (if that is what they truly desire).

There are many misconceptions about hypnosis, its uses and power. Generally, people cannot be induced to do things that they would not choose to do when conscious and despite the fact that it appears to produce an altered state of consciousness, it does not necessarily place people 'at the mercy' of the hypnotist.

Stage hypnosis is very different from medical hypnosis and depends upon the 'preformer' choosing especially susceptible persons (highly suggestible) for the greatest entertainment value. There is usually a 'priming' period when people are assessed and selected and persuaded to 'participate' in the show. The effect can be quite impressive, not least to those who are a part of the events. However, it is important to realise that there is at all times, a part of the individual aware of current events and to whom the 'instructions/suggestions' are put. For instance, although a person can be persuaded to see something that is not there, or not see something that is, it must be remembered that there is some part of that person's mind that is making the decision to pass on or not pass on certain signals or messages to the part of the brain that is apparently the one experiencing the events. It is very complex and even somwehat paradoxical, and in truth it is still not fully understood.

Answer 4

hypnosis is a science.Phsychiatrics use it during their session oif counceling.

They send people to sub concious stage and get  hidden information from patients.

Answer 5

saw it on top gear once quite funny actually

Answer 6

It is proven and I have seen it with my own eyes, and I don't mean some flashy stage performance I mean one to one with a skilled practitioner - the patient being my father.

Answer 7

Yes hypnosys is scietifically proven.