Complications Following Hypnosis in a Psychotic Patient With Sexual Dysfunction Treated by a Lay Hypnotist

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Abstract
A 37-year-old chronic schizophrenic male had no sexual relations for 16 years after a suicide attempt mutilated his face. He reported suggestions given to him during lay hypnosis that he would be able to achieve erections if he imagined performing oral sex. The suggestion violated his morals and for the next 6 months he was tormented by intrusive, repetitive thoughts and images and the psychosis worsened. He had no tongue due to his previous injury. There are dangers in the nonprofessional use, as well as the professional misuse, of hypnosis. Considering the recent increase in the number of lay hypnotists, professionals should educate the lay public, and legislation should be enacted to prevent these difficulties.

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