The cold control theory of hypnosis

Dienes, Zoltan and Perner, Josef (2007) The cold control theory of hypnosis. In: Hypnosis and conscious states: The cognitive neuroscience perspective. Oxford University Press, Oxford, pp. 293-314. ISBN 13: 978-0-19-856980-0

Full text available as:

PDF - Requires a PDF viewer such as GSview, Xpdf or Adobe Acrobat Reader 189 Kb

Alternative URL: http://www.lifesci.sussex.ac.uk/home/Zoltan_Dienes/cold%20control%20chapter.pdf

Abstract

We argue for the theoretical possibility of unconscious executive control using the Higher Order Thought (HOT) theory of Rosenthal (2002). Then we elaborate the cold control theory of hypnosis, according to which hypnotic response involves executive control without conscious intentions. Cold control theory allows an account of why some hypnotic tasks are more difficult than others, of individual differences in hypnotisability, and of the effects of expectation in hypnosis. Cold control theory can be contrasted with two other theories of hypnotic responding motivated by HOT theory (empty heat and multiple selves).

Comments/Discussion

The chapter discusses the experience of involuntariness

Repository Staff Only: edit this item