Abstract
This true experiment examined the immediate effect of a hypnotic induction on an imagined experience and ultimately behaviour. Comparing Control Group (eyes closed only; n = 15) and Experimental Group (hypnosis, n = 15) both were read an identical script, with participants imagining themselves walking through a desert, with Experimental Group also receiving suggestions for stress reduction. The independent variable was a hypnotic induction, with dependent variables being water consumption and stress change. Results showed a statistically significant difference between the groups for both variables of interest: water consumption and stress change. The conclusion is that indirect suggestions can be a major output of hypnosis in addition to enhancing the imagined experience to a point where it may appear more real. Author keywords: Hypnosis, hypnotic inductions, visual imagery, hypnotic
suggestions
