Experiencing hypnotizability scale motor items by an amputee: a brief report

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Hypnotic susceptibility assessment is crucial for understanding individual responses to hypnosis.
• Phantom limb sensations are common experiences for individuals with limb loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the hypnotic susceptibility of a hand and arm amputee using the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility, Form A (HGSHS:A).
• To explore the participant's subjective experiences during hypnosis, particularly concerning phantom limb sensations.

Main Methods:

• Administration of the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility, Form A (HGSHS:A).
• Post-hypnotic interview to gather qualitative data on the participant's experiences.
• Review of existing literature on phantom limb sensations.

Main Results:

• The participant, a hand and arm amputee, successfully passed two out of three motor items related to their missing limb during hypnosis.
• The post-session interview provided insights into the participant's subjective experience of hypnosis and phantom limb phenomena.

Conclusions:

• This case suggests that individuals with limb amputation can exhibit significant hypnotic susceptibility, even in relation to their missing limb.
• Further research is warranted to understand the complex interplay between hypnosis, phantom limb sensations, and motor control in amputees.