The interactive nature of hypnosis: research evidence for a social‐psychobiological model

On the basis of 14 years of empirical research conducted in a mulidimensional interactional framework, the main characteristics of different hypnosis styles are described. It is suggested that typical hypnosis styles resemble the patterns of basic intimate relationships that have mutual regulatory function. This interpretation may help to understand the healing effects of hypnosis, well known for ages, since more and more data indicate that the quality of intimate relationships plays an important role in the development and maintenance of mental and physical health. The research summarized here support the social psychobiological model of hypnosis, conceptualizing hypnosis as an altered state of consciousness that may have a socially and biologically adaptive value.