The role of hypnotizability in the construction of individual sensori-motor selves

Abstract

Part I (Hypnotizability: calling for physiologists) analyzes our earliest findings concerning spinal cord excitability in not hypnotized subjects with high (Highs) and low (Lows) hypnotizability. Results showed that hypnotizabilityrelated differences can be detected also out of hypnosis and without specific suggestions and prompted further investigations on the relation between hypnotizability and sensori-motor integration. Part II (Hypnotizability and postural control: sensory alterations) describes the results of studies on postural control. In particular, the results concern the different set points for postural control and the different responsivity to various sensory alterations in Highs and Lows. Part III (Hypnotizability and postural control: imagery of sensory alterations) concerns the characteristics of imagery abilities allowing Highs to enbody the imagery contents for both obstructive (anaesthesia) and constructive (head rotation) sensory imageries which are able to modify postural control. Part IV (Conclusions) suggests that the findings already obtained may unify the ericksonian and experimental perspectives on hypnosis and that hypnotizability is an important variable to take into account in the selection and set-up of neuro-rehabilitative treatments.