Physiological changes associated with hypnosis: The effect of hypnosis on temperature

Abstract

This study investigated the physiological effect on temperature of hypnosis. Under neutral hypnosis, 20 Ss experienced an increase of oral temperature averaging 0.6[ddot] F., which subsided after termination of the trance. When skin temperature on the forehead, chest, and hand were measured on 4 Ss, there was an even more pronounced increase; measurements on the volar surface of the foot were equivocal. Control oral temperature measurements using relaxation without hypnosis showed no significant increase. It was concluded that neutral hypnosis is generally accompanied by an increase in oral and skin temperature.