Myth No. 4: Hypnotism is just another form of mind-control.
Where It Comes From: In the movies and on stage, volunteers are always hypnotized and instructed to do the most embarrassing things.
Why It’s Bunkum:
Fact 1: Hypnotherapists never perform on stage. They are professional therapists that work with patients to try to find solutions to problems. At all times, the only person in charge of a patient’s mind is the patient. Any suggestions or prompts that are given can be followed or not. Remember, the patient is able to make decisions even while under hypnosis.
Myth No. 5: Hypnotists can brainwash people, making them even commit crimes
Where It Comes From: Many movies depict innocent people unwittingly committing crimes after a designated ‘trigger’ word or item.
Why It’s Bunkum:
Fact 1: Even while under hypnosis, a person is able to recognise what is right and what is wrong. So, if they are asked to do something they disagree with, they are able to refuse. A person has to willingly accept a suggestion for it to remain with them after hypnosis, and for a ‘trigger’ to have any effective.
Fact 2: It’s true that there are some unscrupulous people out there, and some may be trained in hypnosis. But ‘brainwashing’ can only be accomplished over a prolonged period of time, with the dubious suggestion repeated enough times. So, if you sensed for even one second that a hypnotist had negative intentions, you can stop and get out before anything happened. We would also recommend you report the individual to the police. This is one in a series of six blogs about hypnosis myths debunked.
Read more about other myths and misconceptions surrounding hypnosis in the remainder of this series.
If you would like to experience hypnosis for yourself or you are just looking for a good reason to relax and expand your mind, go ahead and click the button to take advantage of the free hypnosis MP3.