Impact of Stage Hypnosis

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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a performance by a stage hypnotist on a university campus. We used two approaches to evaluate the effects: a random telephone survey of the student population, and face-to-face interviews with individuals who were in trance during the performance. These two approaches gave us the opportunity to study and to compare the characteristics and reactions of both the hypnotic subjects on the stage and the members of the audience. We found that about half of the individuals who had a trance experience generally enjoyed it and had some positive aftereffects. About one-fifth of the trance subjects had both a negative experience during the trance and some negative aftereffects. Stage hypnosis, although it is presented as mere entertainment, appears to have both positive and negative effects on a significant number of people. A number of factors contribute to its potential dangers. Stage hypnosis poses risks that are unacceptable and outweigh its potential entertainment value and therapeutic benefits.

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