M. Sharma
2012
Citations
0
Influential Citations
2
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
International Journal of Social and Economic Research
Abstract
Hypnosis is not used as a preferred method of therapy due to the presence of a number of myths and misconceptions. This study assesses the awareness of hypnotherapy among mental health professionals and caregivers. A convenience sample of fifty mental health professionals and fifty caregivers of patients with mental health problems, above 18 years of age were included. The hypnosis scale was administered to measure the level of awareness and the myths and misconceptions about hypnosis. Mental health professionals have more factual knowledge about hypnosis where both groups share misconceptions about hypnosis, but it is more among caregivers. Mental health professionals were unwilling to use it as a therapy, whereas caregivers showed acceptance for using hypnosis as a therapy. It shows the presence of misconceptions about hypnosis and the unwillingness to use it as a form of therapy among mental health professionals. Among caregivers, despite the presence of myths, there was a willingness to use it; a similar trend was seen. It has implications for sensitising mental health professionals and caregivers regarding hypnosis.