States of Consciousness: Induced States

Introduction

• States of consciousness can occur naturally or be induced.
• Focus today: Hypnosis and Meditation.

Hypnosis

Common Misconceptions

• Hollywood often depicts hypnosis inaccurately.
• Hypnosis requires the consent and openness of the individual.

Susceptibility to Suggestion

• People are often open to suggestion to a certain degree.
• Example: Telling someone they are swaying can cause them to sway if they are open to suggestion.
• Hypnosis typically involves relaxation and focus.

Brain Activity

• During hypnosis, EEG shows more Alpha waves (awake but relaxed state).
• Hypnosis can be dangerous for memory retrieval
  • Memory is malleable and can lead to creation of false memories.

Hypnosis and Pain Management

• Hypnosis may help refocus attention, reducing pain perception.
• Evidence shows reduced brain activity in areas processing sensory input during hypnosis.
• Success relies on the individual's belief in hypnosis.

Meditation

Definition

• Involves self-regulation of attention and awareness.
• Can be either guided (focused) or unfocused (mind wanders freely).

Brain Activity

• Light meditation: Increased Alpha waves, similar to relaxation.
• Deep meditation (achieved by experts): Increased Theta waves, similar to sleep stages but awake.

Long-term Effects

• Few scientific studies on long-term effects.
• Some evidence of increased brain activity outside of meditation in experienced meditators.
  • Increased activity in prefrontal cortex, right hippocampus, right anterior insula.
  • Suggests improved ability to control attention.

Implications

• Potential benefits for attention-related disorders (e.g., ADHD).
• Could help avoid attentional deficits associated with aging.