Most of the recognized experts in the field proclaim that hypnosis is safe, that one cannot be hypnotized to do things they would not ordinarily do or things that are against their moral code, and that essentially, the subject is in control with the hypnotist serving as the guide only.(1) There are those in the hypnotherapy community who disagree. (2)
In spite of the claims made by the experts, there remain stories/allegations from individuals who proclaim that among other things, while under hypnotic influence, they surrendered bank or credit card information, had nonconsensual sex (3), revealed personal information they would not normally have shared, and performed specific acts that were not in their normal nature to do so. There are also stories of predators who attempt and at times "succeed" in trancing someone who does not wish to be tranced or who isn't aware of a hypnotic induction taking place.
Are the experts right? Are the stories real? Honestly, I can't say. I think that under most circumstances, the assertations of the experts are correct. I have heard it said (and I agree) that while our moral code can't be changed in a standard hypnosis session, we can have our perceptions altered. For example, a subject may insist they would never disrobe in front of a hypnotist, however, it is possible they could accept the suggestion that the hypnotist left the room when in fact, he/she didn't.
Since I don't know, I practice and recommend the following safety strategies:
1. Don't trance with someone if you do not know them. "Knowing" doesn't mean simply knowing their name and a few details about them. Spend time, build rapport, gather information, watch how they behave, ask for references, ask others about their reputation.
When planning to see a hypnotherapist, ask about their training (how much they had, what they are trained to do), how long they have been in practice, if they are insured, what their plan is for each session.
2. When chatting online, if someone doesn't take no for an answer or attempts to trance you without your knowledge, put them on ignore. No means no. Anyone who cannot accept that is a predator. Don't try to argue with them or reason with them. Recently someone attempted to do a "stealth" induction via text with me. My response - "GET LOST" and instant ignore. It doesn't matter to me if the trance could be or was effective. To attempt without consent makes someone a predator. PERIOD.
(I'm
not knocking stealth inductions. Certainly, they're exciting if the two
involved have a history of trancing together and realize this is
something they both want at some point. )
3. Understand how hypnosis works. The best way to stop abuse of this sort is knowledge and common sense. Don't let your desire for the experience cloud your judgment. Be patient.
(1)
Austrailian
Society of Clinical Hypnotherapists
(1) Mayo Clinic
(1) American
Board of Hypnotherapy
(1) Harvard Medical School
(2) Hypnotic Reflections
(3) Victims push to regulate hypnosis
