Relation of Rorschach Factors and Plasma Hydrocortisone Level in Hypnotically Induced Anxiety

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Abstract
Plasma hydrocortisone (PHC) was determined under hypnosis and following a hypnotically induced anxiety state in 12 normal subjects. At the same times, Rorschach tests were administered. The change in level of PHC is significantly correlated with 3 of 26 factors scored on the Rorschach test. The 3 factors are response determined only by color (Pure C), popular response (P), and percentage of good form response (F+%). The correlations are in the predicted direction, Pure C being positive and the other 2 being negative. Five other Rorschach factors known to be significantly elevated following a hypnotically induced anxiety state and which are indexes of neurotic anxiety did not achieve a significant correlation with the change in hormone level. It is suggested that the appearance of the 3 prepsychotic indicators is dependent on an increased level of circulating hydrocortisone.