Psychology and More

In Introduction to Psychology, we were recently discussing consciousness and non-ordinary consciousness. Hypnosis is one of those non-ordinary states of consciousness which can show some very important changes in perceptual experience, including pain relief. Mind Hacks has an interesting article on a research study underway…

Mind Hacks: Hypnosis as a surgical tool:

Patients were randomly assigned to either a brief 15-minute hypnosis condition, or to another where the patient discussed their concerns with an empathic psychologist (to make sure the effects weren’t just due to having someone their to ‘calm their nerves’).

The study found that patients given hypnosis needed less painkilling medication, were less nauseous, less emotionally upset, and experienced less pain intensity than the patients in the ‘empathic listening’ condition.

Technorati Tags: perception, psychology, hypnosis