The Implied Directive
The implied directive usually has three parts (Erickson & Rossi, 1979): (1) a time-binding introduction; (2) an implied suggestion for an internal response that will take place inside the patient; and (3) a behavioral response that will signal when the internal response or suggestion has been accomplished. This type of suggestion is particularly used for tracking progress during hypnosis.
format The implied directive often conforms to the format: "As soon as [the time binding introduction] your inner mind has identified the circumstances when that problem developed [the internal process that is desired] your 'yes' finger will float up" [the behavioral signal].
phrasing Here are some illustrations, within the format that was just introduced, of how this type of suggestion may be phrased. "As soon as . . . (your entire hand feels very numb and anesthetized; you can no longer feel your legs; you can see_; that memory has faded from your conscious mind; you know __; your unconscious senses that your trance is deep enough to accomplish_) . . . then . . . (your arm will float down; your finger will lift; you will awaken).
Post a comment