Conceptual issues in hypnosis research: explanations, definitions and the state/non-state debate

Abstract

The present paper aims to integrate existing streams of hypnosis research and theory into a broader context. A conceptual framework is presented that illustrates the range of explanatory approaches that are available to describe psychological phenomena in general, and this is applied to the discussion of hypnosis. In doing so, various approaches to hypnosis research are categorized and the scope and limitations of the theories derived from them are considered. The definition of hypnosis is also explored within this framework. The state/non-state debate is reconsidered in the context of the systems approach to states of consciousness described by Tart (1983/2000). Research agendas for hypnosis are clarified, and methodologies and directions for future research are suggested.