The Greek word "hypno" means sleep. However, the EEG patterns of hypnotic trance are totally different from the EEG patterns of sleep.

Hypnosis is created in the subject by the power of the hypnotherapist.

This myth has been perpetuated by "stage hypnotists" who have perpetuated the illusion of possessing special powers to control their subjects’ behavior. In reality, no one can get you to do anything you would not ordinarily do. The hypnotherapist is just guiding you into a comfortable trance that you are choosing to do yourself.

Hypnosis occurs only when induced by a hypnotherapist.

A hypnotic trance is a naturally occurring phenomenon that people go in and out of everyday. It is called "spontaneous hypnosis". You might be watching an interesting program and not realize someone has entered the room or be driving and not remember the last few blocks you drove. When that occurs, you are in "spontaneous hypnosis".

Only people of weak character can be hypnotized.

The opposite has been found to be true. People with severe mental illnesses are associated with a lower hypnotic capacity. In fact, it has been demonstrated that higher hypnotic capacity is a sign of health.

Women are more hypnotizable than men.

This myth is associated with the outdated notion that women are more weak minded, passive and dependent than men. In fact, women and men are equally hypnotizable.

A person can get "stuck" in a trance.

In healthy people who do not suffer from a major mental illness, it is impossible to get "stuck" in trance.

Once a person has been hypnotized, he/she can no longer resist it.

This stems from the belief that the hypnotherapist is in control of the person. In reality, the person can come out of trance anytime they want to. And, they can choose not to go into trance.

A successful hypnotherapist must be unique, charismatic or weird.

This myth is perpetuated by stage hypnotists who wish people to believe they have magical powers. Success as a hypnotherapist rests more on skills in interpersonal communication and the ability to put people in a safe atmosphere of comfort.

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