Effects of Practice on Hypnotic Suggestibility: A Re-Evaluation of Hull's Postulates

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Abstract
Hull's (1933) theory postulates that hypnotic suggestibility is a habit phenomenon that is facilitated by practice. A previous study (Barber & Calverley, 1966) showed that Hull's contention is not always valid: when Ss were given repeated practice in responding to the same hypnotic suggestions, they became bored and showed a reduction in hypnotic suggestibility. The present study tested the hypothesis that practice facilitates hypnotic suggestibility when an attempt is made to maintain S's interest and to prevent boredom by varying the hypnotic suggestions used in the practice sessions. The hypothesis was confirmed. It is concluded that whether Ss show an increase or a decrease in hypnotic suggestibility with practice depends upon how the practice sessions are conducted.