Is Hypnosis Merely a Placebo Response?

The placebo effect and suggestion are indeedthe rest of the results come? I know that
similar. They provide positive expectations. And,teaching patients stress relief and other
when coupled with the reverent authority of themind-body techniques (such as NLP, EFT, etc.) are
operator or administrator of the drug, bothpart of the equation.
present great value. However, since the standardsAlso, the content of the suggestions and
(used by the FDA) attribute only a 0.3 correlationmetaphors are an issue. Lastly, the power of the
to the placebo effect, this does not explain whymind to affect physiology (probably through the
the use of hypnosis can produce much greaterlimbic system or H-P-A axis) is a new concept
results.that I find is powerful. Fortunately, this is an area
For instance, in forensic hypnosis approximatelythat is getting more and more coverage in trade
80% of the cases were either solved leading topublications, professional publications, and in
conviction or valuable information was obtainedresearch institutions.
(according to Dr. Diamond, the head psychologistTherefore, once you get beyond the 30%,
for the LAPD). Also, my experience with IBS andplacebo effect level, there is a whole
Fibromyalgia is that about 90% of the refractory,psychodynamic/mind-body/integrative universe
long-term cases benefit with major symptomleft for psychologists to explore. Unfortunately,
relief through the use of hypnosis protocols. Thisrivalries (and egos) between psychologists, medical
is backed up by several research studiesdoctors, and hypnotherapists work against us, not
conducted by medical hospitals and documentedfor us. There is a need for all researchers and
on PUBMED.healers to understand the strengths of each
So, if suggestion is generally responsible for 30%profession and respect how collaboration is the
of the benefit of hypnosis, then from where dokey to progress.