The effects of encoding in hypnosis and post-hypnotic suggestion on academic performance.

This study examined the relationship between proactive learning in hypnosis, post-hypnotic suggestion, and academic performance. Participants (N = 56) were randomly assigned to a control group or a treatment group. The treatment group was hypnotized and read a passage while in hypnosis. Concurrently, they were given a post-hypnotic suggestion, which attempted to aid recognition and performance on a test immediately following the hypnosis session. Both groups completed a multiple-choice test based on the aforementioned passage. An analysis of covariance discerned the effect of proactive learning and post-hypnotic suggestion on test performance, while controlling for the variance introduced by scholastic aptitude as measured by the ACT. Results indicated that the hypnosis sessions predicted significantly impaired test performance.

Am J Clin Hypn. 2011 Apr;53(4):247-54. Jacobson N, Kramer S, Tharp A, Costa S, Hawley P. Truman State Universit, USA. njacobson88@gmail.com