Signal Specificity and Post-hypnotic Effect

Abstract

The term post-hypnotic suggestion (P.H.S.) will be used in this paper as meaning the form of words which constitute the suggestion, while by the term post-hypnotic effect (P.H.E.), will be meant the behaviour of the subject consequent on the P.H.S. Quantitative studies of post-hypnotic behaviour using slowing of reaction time (RT) as the P.H.E. have already been described in relation to the duration of P.H.E. (Edwards, 1963), and the influence of amnesia on P.H.E. (Edwards, 1965). The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence on P.H.E. of giving a signal similar to but not identical with the signal defined in the P.H.S. as that which would evoke the P.H.E.