AP Psychology Practice Test

What is hypnosis?

1. A deep sleep where the subject loses consciousness

2. A state of heightened awareness and focus

3. A social interaction leading to spontaneous thoughts or behaviors

4. A medical treatment for sleep disorders

The correct answer is: A social interaction leading to spontaneous thoughts or behaviors

Hypnosis is best described as a social interaction that facilitates focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation. In this state, a person may experience spontaneous thoughts and behaviors as a response to suggestions made by the hypnotist. It is important to understand that during hypnosis, individuals do not lose consciousness or enter a deep sleep; rather, they may remain fully aware of their surroundings while being more open to suggestions. The choice related to hypnosis as a deep sleep is misleading; individuals under hypnosis are often in a state of heightened awareness rather than unconsciousness. The notion of hypnosis purely as a medical treatment for sleep disorders overlooks the broader application of hypnosis in areas like pain management, anxiety reduction, and behavioral modification. While hypnosis can be helpful in some therapeutic contexts, it is not solely a medical treatment. Additionally, characterizing hypnosis as a state of heightened awareness and focus precisely captures the essence of the experience, as the hypnotized individual often has enhanced ability to concentrate and engage with suggestions provided during the session.