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An Eye-Roll Test for Hypnotizability
Abstract
The ability to look upward on signal while closing the eyelids (Eye Roll Sign) correlates highly (73.9%) with hypnotic trance capacity as measured by the Hypnotic Induction Profile in 2000 consecutive psychotherapy cases. In practical clinical terms this implies that in about five seconds the Eye Roll (ER) sign predicts hypnotizability in three out of four cases. Further, the higher the roll (0-4 scale), the higher is the trance capacity. This offers a quick, subtle, clinical way to ascertain whether or not hypnosis can have a probable role as an adjunct in the various psychotherapeutic strategies. Technic and data are presented.
... The eye roll test for hypnotizability was devised by Herbert Spiegel in 1972 following an observation that participants who were highly hypnotizable had the unusual capacity to roll their eyes upwards so that mainly just the white part of the eye is visible. In 75% of 2,000 consecutive clinical cases, a five second assessment using the Eye Roll sign accurately predicted the level of hypnotizability [35]. In one out of four cases, positive eye roll was misleading. ...
... The high correlation between the eye roll test and hypnotizability prompted Spiegel to speculate that hypnotizability is physiologically determined and he suggested that this trait is either genetically pre-determined or is a skill learned early in life [35]. One study by Orne et al. [36] found that the HIP did not correlate highly with other scales, which may explain why HIP assessment does not appear all that frequently as a test of hypnotizability in the literature. ...
... One study by Orne et al. [36] found that the HIP did not correlate highly with other scales, which may explain why HIP assessment does not appear all that frequently as a test of hypnotizability in the literature. It must be noted, however, that the HIP was tested on 2,000 psychotherapy cases [35] as opposed to laboratory tests which have been standardized on non-patients i.e. college students [25]. The physiological investigations with respect to assessing hypnotisability are relatively recent despite these earlier observations by Spiegel. ...
This article explores the history of the ancient art of hypnosis down through the years. It examines the efficacy of hypnosis as a treatment for chronic pain and outlines theories and models of hypnosis. The biological correlates of hypnosis are delineated and the application of hypnotherapy and its place in modern medicine in the treatment of chronic pain is also discussed.
... The tendency and persistence of absorption depends on biological-psychological-social factors that are influenced by intelligence, interests, and motivation. Absorption is reduced by a lack of attention and concentration due to physical and mental illness and the effects of certain medications (Spiegel, 2010(Spiegel, , 1974(Spiegel, , 2007(Spiegel, , 1977. ...
... (1) The Up-gaze roll, which provides a biological measure and records the biological capacity of the subject's hypnosis experience (Spiegel, 2010), that monitors the function of the brain circuits associated with hypnosis (Spiegel, 2007). (2) The subject's report of his hypnotic experience, which includes the experience of separation, dissociation, involuntary hand movement, and sensory changes. ...
The aim of this study is the assessment of reliability and factor structure of "Hypnotic Induction Profile" (HIP) scale in an Iranian psychiatric patient sample. The tool of measurement is HIP that calculated based on two methods of scoring (profile score and induction score). Results showed that the HIP scale is reliable. Cronbach's alpha internal consistency was .90 and calculated test-retest reliability of Induction Scores and also the Profile Scores were .74 and .80. Agreement coefficient between the two examiners for both scoring methods (Profile Score and Induction Score) was calculated .79 and coefficient correlation for the two scoring methods was .85. Furthermore, factor analysis validity of the HIP scale showed that this scale is constructed by two factors, and derived factors explain 74.94% of the total variance. In general, results in this study present enough reliability for the HIP scale. Concepts of these findings for future studies are discussed.
... Some traditional views of hypnosis contend that the hypnotic 'state' is characterised by strongly focussed attention [16]. Other models have proposed that high hypnotisables efficiently focus attention while unhypnotized, but that their attentional control is compromised following a hypnotic induction [17]. Consequently, attention management is an important element that is needed to transition into and maintain a hypnotic state "because the shift of attention is constantly sensitive to cues" [18]. ...
... A similar pattern of eye movements has been used to train people to activate their intuition, 93 while increased hypnotic susceptibility has been linked to the ability to intentionally gaze upwards. 99 Similarly, a classic hypnotic induction technique involves the EMDR-like visual tracking of a ...
The field of energy medicine (EM) is perhaps the most controversial branch of integrative medicine: its core concept - the existence of an invisible healing energy – has not yet been validated by Western medicine, and the mechanism(s) of action of its techniques have not been fully elucidated. In this paper, these problems are addressed by first outlining the organization of the human subtle energy system, and noting which components of that structure (meridians, energy centers and biofield) are impacted by various EM techniques. Evidence regarding the existence of this “subtle anatomy” is then presented from three realms: basic science research into electromagnetic fields (EMF), subjective experiences of EM, and clairvoyant perceptions of EM in action.
Secondly, EM’s mechanisms of action are explored by describing how these techniques alter energy dynamics and affect biologic processes, a subject that could be termed “energy physiology”, to parallel conventional medicine’s foundation in anatomy and physiology. Finally, research into “energy physiology” is proposed, focusing on unusual experiences that are not fully explained by the current mechanistic biomedical model, but which do have plausible and verifiable energy-based explanation. These subjects include phantom limb pain, subtle energy-induced oxidative stress, emotional entrainment in groups, and the invisible templates that guide cell growth and differentiation.
Keywords: biofield, subtle energy, energy medicine, phantom pain, energy psychology
... BSpacing out^and identity confusion observed by others, for instance, are part of the core set of dissociative symptoms that have been validated as part of the Child Dissociative Checklist (CDC; Putnam, Helmers, & Trickett, 1993). Moreover, variations in eye flutter and eye roll are one of the oldest and most studied signs of hypnotic and dissociative states (Spiegel, 1972), with eye roll capacity correlating .55 with dissociation (Torem, Egtvedt, & Curdue, 1995). Most importantly, Merckelbach and Patihis (2018) are simply incorrect in stating that Brand et al. (2017b) are suggesting that behavioral signs can alone be used as sufficient markers of a trauma history or dissociative disorder. ...
Dissociation is commonly a response to trauma that can be associated with significant impairment. In order to deal with dissociation in court from a comprehensive, scientifically informed, and valid perspective, Brand, Schielke, and Brams (Psychological Injury and Law, 10, 283-297, 2017a, b) provided a balanced view of dissociation, its characteristics, evidence base, and best assessment practices. Without an approach such as this, forensic experts risk having insufficient knowledge in its causation, phenomenology, and assessment and accordingly misunderstand trauma-related dissociation (TRD). Brand et al. (Psychological Injury and Law, 10, 283-297, 2017a, b) addressed this issue by providing an overview of TRD relevant to forensic contexts, acknowledging some of the erroneous and misinformed approaches to the topic. Merckelbach and Patihis (2018) offered a critique of Brand et al. (Psychological Injury and Law, 10, 283-297, 2017a, b) that illustrated this lack of knowledge and misunderstanding about TRD. Many of the statements made by these authors are conceptually inaccurate or scientifically misinformed. As we show, they were incorrect when they stated that research is lacking about the inter-rater reliability of dissociative disorder (DD) diagnoses. They were unaware of the error rates of tests and interviews among dissociative samples, which we present here. Merckelbach and Patihis challenged Brand et al., arguing their methods and literature review “lacked a connectivity to existing science” (p. 3), despite extensive citations of studies with DD patients. They argued that we failed to adequately consider malingering despite our discussions of empirically supported methods for assessing it. We show that Merckelbach and Patihis overlooked research that does not support their views. As we review their comments, we illustrate their pattern of misreading and misunderstanding our papers, as well as lapses in their reasoning. The current paper reinforces that in the forensic context, experts can acquire adequate understanding of TRD and its evidence base, and put forward arguments against any harsh critique of the area that is uninformed about, misunderstands, or includes omissions and errors in critical conceptualization, state-of-the-art assessment practices, and research methodology and results.
... 29 Women in the hypnosis + CD group were guided in to a state of hypnosis using the preferred induction method of the hypnotherapist: usually an eye fixation technique or Spiegel. 31,32 Power calculation An audit of 100 consecutive mothers birthing at our institution in May 2004 showed an incidence of using one or more pharmacological interventions of 80%. In order to ª 2013 RCOG show a clinically relevant difference of 20% in the number of women requiring pharmacological analgesia, we used a two-tailed calculation (NQUERY ADVISOR 5.0; Statistical Solutions Ltd., Cork, Ireland). ...
Objective To determine the use of pharmacologic analgesia during childbirth when antenatal hypnosis is added to standard care. Design Randomised controlled clinical trial, conducted from December 2005 to December 2010. Setting The largest tertiary referral centre for maternity care in South Australia. Population A cohort of 448 women at >34 weeks of gestation, with a singleton pregnancy and cephalic presentation, planning a vaginal birth. Exclusions were: the need for an interpreter; pre-existing pain; psychiatric illness; younger than 18 years; and previous experience of hypnosis for childbirth. Methods All participants received usual care. The group of women termed Hypnosis + CD (hypnotherapist guided) were offered three antenatal live hypnosis sessions plus each session's corresponding audio CD for further practise, as well as a final fourth CD to listen to during labour. The group of women termed CD only (nurse administered) were played the same antenatal hypnosis CDs as group 1, but did not receive live hypnosis training. The control group participants were given no additional intervention or CDs. Main outcome measure Use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth. Results No difference in the use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth was found comparing hypnosis + CD with control (81.2 versus 76.2%; relative risk, RR 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.95–1.20), or comparing CD only with control (76.9 versus 76.2%, RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.89– 1.15). Conclusions Antenatal group hypnosis using the Hypnosis Antenatal Training for Childbirth (HATCh) intervention in late pregnancy does not reduce the use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth.
... Hypnotizability was assessed using the eye-roll test (Spiegel, 1972), which entails rotating one's eyes toward the top of the head while keeping the head still, then slowly rolling one's eyelids down while continuing to look up (see Figure 2). The amount of sclera visible during the upgaze and roll (or squint if they cannot roll) is assessed on a 5-point scale (or 4-point scale for squints if they cannot roll their eyes down; 0 = least sclera visible/least hypnotizable). ...
The importance of fire in human evolutionary history is widely acknowledged but the extent not fully explored. Fires involve flickering light, crackling sounds, warmth, and a distinctive smell. For early humans, fire likely extended the day, provided heat, helped with hunting, warded off predators and insects, illuminated dark places, and facilitated cooking. Campfires also may have provided social nexus and relaxation effects that could have enhanced prosocial behavior. According to this hypothesis, calmer, more tolerant people would have benefited in the social milieu via fireside interactions relative to individuals less susceptible to relaxation response. Using a randomized crossover design that disaggregated fire's sensory properties, pre-posttest blood pressure measures were compared among 226 adults across three studies with respect to viewing simulated muted-fire, fire-with-sound, and control conditions, in addition to tests for interactions with hypnotizability, absorption, and prosociality. Results indicated consistent blood pressure decreases in the fire-with-sound condition, particularly with a longer duration of stimulus, and enhancing effects of absorption and prosociality. Findings confirm that hearth and campfires induce relaxation as part of a multisensory, absorptive, and social experience. Enhancements to relaxation capacities in the human social brain likely took place via feedback involving these and other variables.
... 29 Women in the hypnosis + CD group were guided in to a state of hypnosis using the preferred induction method of the hypnotherapist: usually an eye fixation technique or Spiegel. 31,32 Power calculation An audit of 100 consecutive mothers birthing at our institution in May 2004 showed an incidence of using one or more pharmacological interventions of 80%. In order to ª 2013 RCOG show a clinically relevant difference of 20% in the number of women requiring pharmacological analgesia, we used a two-tailed calculation (NQUERY ADVISOR 5.0; Statistical Solutions Ltd., Cork, Ireland). ...
To determine the use of pharmacologic analgesia during childbirth when antenatal hypnosis is added to standard care.
Randomised controlled clinical trial, conducted from December 2005 to December 2010.
The largest tertiary referral centre for maternity care in South Australia.
A cohort of 448 women at >34 weeks of gestation, with a singleton pregnancy and cephalic presentation, planning a vaginal birth. Exclusions were: the need for an interpreter; pre-existing pain; psychiatric illness; younger than 18 years; and previous experience of hypnosis for childbirth.
All participants received usual care. The group of women termed Hypnosis + CD (hypnotherapist guided) were offered three antenatal live hypnosis sessions plus each session's corresponding audio CD for further practise, as well as a final fourth CD to listen to during labour. The group of women termed CD only (nurse administered) were played the same antenatal hypnosis CDs as group 1, but did not receive live hypnosis training. The control group participants were given no additional intervention or CDs.
Use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth.
No difference in the use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth was found comparing hypnosis + CD with control (81.2 versus 76.2%; relative risk, RR 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.95-1.20), or comparing CD only with control (76.9 versus 76.2%, RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.89-1.15).
Antenatal group hypnosis using the Hypnosis Antenatal Training for Childbirth (HATCh) intervention in late pregnancy does not reduce the use of pharmacological analgesia during labour and childbirth.
A recent international survey discovered that clinicians who use hypnosis in their practice rarely assess the hypnotizability of their patients or clients. This contrasts sharply with the practice in laboratory research. One reason offered for this discrepancy is that hypnotizability does not strongly predict clinical outcome. But a comparison of this relationship with similar correlations in other domains shows that this criticism is misleading – especially when the treatment capitalizes on the alterations in perception, memory, and voluntary control that characterize the domain of hypnosis. Routine assessment of hypnotizability improves clinical practice by enabling clinicians to select patients for whom hypnosis is appropriate; and it improves clinical research by providing important information about the mechanisms underlying hypnotic effects.
The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of Cognitive Developmental Hypnotherapy (CDH) on Differentiation of Self, Meaning in Life and Marital Conflicts in married women. The method is quasi-experimental pretest and posttest with a control group. The statistical population of this study includes married women who came to FUM Counseling and Psychological Services Center to receive psychological services. The sample of this study included 40 married women who were selected by targeted sampling method and randomly assigned to two experimental and control groups. Participants in the pretest and posttest study answered the Differentiation of Self Inventory, the Marital Conflicts questionnaire by Sanaei, and the Meaning in Life questionnaire. The research data were analyzed using ANCOVA and MANCOVA with SPSS-21. The findings showed CDH led to an increase in Differentiation of Self and Meaning in life, and a reduction in Marital Conflicts in women. Accordingly, CDH through using techniques such as induction and empowerment of the Ego is effective in marital conflicts of married women. Therefore, using it as a means to improve the quality of married women’s lives is recommended.
The Hypnotic Induction Profile (HIP) was developed as a brief, yet thorough, assessment of a person’s level of trait hypnotizability and their potential to experience a hypnotic state. The HIP quantitatively and qualitatively measures hynotizability by evaluating biological and sensorimotor experiences designed to assess 3 fundamental observable and measurable components of hypnosis: absorption, dissociation, and suggestibility through a guided assessment that takes 5 to 10 minutes. From conception, the HIP has been utilized in clinical settings to assess appropriateness for the use of hypnosis in treatment planning and research protocols to stratify research participants. The brevity, accessibility, and reliability of the HIP have allowed it to adapt, not only across settings but through media platforms as technology and remote delivery become increasingly incorporated in the field of hypnosis.
Research conducted by Cojan, et al. (2015) identified that susceptibility to hypnosis is closely associated with the Executive Control capabilities within the brain, which manage attentional (1) focus. Similarly, experiments conducted by Jiang, et al. (2016) demonstrated that processes related to the management of attention through the Executive Control Network (ECN), Default Mode Network (DMN), and Salience Network (SN) were highly influential in facilitating a hypnotic state. This paper outlines an integrated framework for understanding how these aspects of attentional control can be managed practically to facilitate hypnotisation, by leveraging exogenous (2) and endogenous (3) factors. This approach builds on the attention management framework explained in Hilliard (2016), which can be used to apply effective top-down (4) and bottom-up (5) controls to influence a person's perception (6) and cognition (7). The factors encapsulated in this model include Salience (8) , perceptual/cognitive Recognition, Value & Reward, Tasks & Plans, complexity, and arousal. As this paper demonstrates, each of these factors can influence attentional prioritisation, and they can therefore be applied to facilitate hypnotisation.
Abstract Many schizophrenia patients seek hypnosis when they have not improved with psychopharmacological therapy. However, there has been controversy regarding the use and effectiveness of hypnosis in schizophrenia. Hypnotherapeutic methods such as direct and indirect suggestions, psycho-strengthening suggestions and imagery, hypnoprojective restructuring, guidance, and neutralization of affect associated with delusions have been effective in selected highly hypnotizable patients. Details of the hypnotherapeutic structure and strategy used for managing delusions in schizophrenia are presented with representative cases.
Herb Spiegel was known for many professional and scientific achievements. He is may be best remembered for his discovery of the Eye Roll Sign (ERS) and its relation to innate trance capacity and the parallel creation and development of the Hypnotic Induction Profile (HIP). The present paper provides a historical context for understanding Herb's 1972 publication of “An Eye Roll Test for Hypnotizability” which originally appeared in the American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 38 years ago and is reprinted in this journal issue.
Four Yogis who practised samadhi were investigated electroencephalographically. It was observed that their resting records showed persistent alpha activity with increased amplitude modulation during samadhi. The alpha activity could not be blocked by various sensory stimuli during meditation.Two Yogis, who could keep their hand immersed in ice cold water for 45–55 min, also showed persistent alpha activity both before and during this practice.The possible mechanism of these observation has been discussed.
Oxygen consumption, heart rate, skin resistance, and electroenceph-alograph measurements were recorded before, during, and
after subjects practiced a technique called transcendental meditation. There were significant changes between the control
period and the meditation period in all measurements. During meditation, oxygen consumption and heart rate decreased, skin
resistance increased, and the electroencephalogram showed specific changes in certain frequencies. These results seem to distinguish
the state produced by transcendental meditation from commonly encountered states of consciousness and suggest that it may
have practical applications.