How does Ernest Hilgard explain pain reduction through hypnosis?
A) Hypnosis increases dopamine levels in the body.
B) People merely play the role of the hypnotized person and attempt to ignore the pain.
C) Hypnotized individuals dissociate the experience so part of the mind is unaware of the pain.
D) Hypnosis results in an altered state of consciousness that alters brain waves in regions of the brain responsible for the perception of pain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ernest Hilgard's theory of pain reduction through hypnosis is based on the idea that hypnotized individuals dissociate the experience of pain, meaning that part of their mind becomes unaware of the pain. This is known as the "hidden observer" phenomenon, where a hypnotized person's conscious mind dissociates from the actual experience of pain, while another part of their mind continues to register the pain without their conscious awareness. This dissociation is thought to reduce the intensity of pain perception.

How Does Ernest Hilgard Explain Pain Reduction Through Hypnosis