Mutual Group Hypnosis and Smoking

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Abstract
This paper describes the use of mutual group hypnosis as an environment in which to carry out a problem solving program designed to help smokers become nonsmokers. Hypnosis provides a relaxed milieu, heightens imagery and intensifies concentration. Specific techniques used include (1) brainstorming about reasons for wanting to be a nonsmoker; (2) time progression and imagery to consider the possibility of change sometime in the future; (3) spontaneous dream to monitor motivation and rehearsal of imagery associated with self-control and choice. Finally, mutual hypnosis was used to provide social support and feedback to group members. Nineteen subjects divided into four groups were seen for a week program, one and one-half hours per week by the same therapist. Results: 16 of 19 (84%) reported themselves nonsmokers by the fourth session. At 10 months 13 of 19 (68%) were still nonsmokers. Longer term follow-up studies are necessary because of the regression over ten months period. Future studies may include independent measures of self-concept to determine any correlation, if any, with the nonsmoker status, a larger sample of subjects, as well as comparison of results between different therapists using the same techniques.

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