Definition

Noun: A hypnotic trance is a specific, altered state of consciousness, typically characterized by deep relaxation, focused attention, and heightened suggestibility, which is deliberately induced through the process of hypnosis. In this state, the individual is more receptive to the verbal suggestions or instructions provided by the hypnotist.

Usage

The term is used to describe the central experiential state during a hypnosis session. It is a clinical and psychological term. - It is often the goal of a hypnotic induction procedure. - The depth and characteristics of a hypnotic trance can vary between individuals. - The person in a hypnotic trance usually remains aware and in control, contrary to common misconceptions.

Examples

• The therapist guided her into a deep hypnotic trance to help manage her anxiety.
• During the hypnotic trance, he was able to recall details of the memory more clearly.
• Not everyone is equally susceptible to entering a hypnotic trance.

Advanced Usage

• Therapeutic context: In clinical settings, a hypnotic trance is utilized as a tool for psychotherapy, pain management, or behavior modification (e.g., smoking cessation).
• Stage hypnosis: In entertainment, stage hypnotists demonstrate the phenomena of a hypnotic trance, though the nature and purpose differ from therapeutic applications.
• Self-hypnosis: Individuals can learn to induce a hypnotic trance in themselves, often referred to as an autohypnotic state.

Variants and Related Words

• Trance (n): A more general term for any state of altered consciousness, which may be spontaneous, meditative, or culturally induced, not necessarily involving hypnosis.
• Hypnosis (n): The overall practice or process used to induce a hypnotic trance.
• Hypnotic (adj): 1. Relating to hypnosis. 2. Having the quality of inducing sleep or a trance-like state (e.g., a rhythm).
• Hypnotist (n): The practitioner who induces the hypnotic trance.

Synonyms

• Hypnotic state
• Mesmeric trance (archaic, relating to mesmerism)
• Somnambulistic state (in older terminology, referring to a very deep level of hypnosis)

Antonyms

• Normal waking consciousness
• Alert state
• Hyper-awareness

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Trance logic: The phenomenon within a hypnotic trance where an individual may accept logical inconsistencies suggested by the hypnotist without questioning them.
• Post-hypnotic suggestion: A suggestion given during the hypnotic trance that is intended to be carried out after the trance has ended.
• Trance depth: Refers to the measured or perceived level of the hypnotic experience, often categorized as light, medium, or somnambulistic.

Noun

1. a trance induced by the use of hypnosis; the person accepts the suggestions of the hypnotist