Doris Gruenewald

On the nature of multiple personality: Comparisons with hypnosis

Abstract Similarities and differences between multiple personality and hypnosis are explored. First, comparisons are made in terms of dissociation, with special attention to neo-dissociation theory. Second, selected features of memory as system and process are addressed. Third, roletaking theory is related to multiple personality and hypnosis. Finally, a conceptual framework of ego and self-psychology is presented with implications for a developmental theory of multiple personality as a disorder of narcissism. Hypnosis and multiple personality are seen as sharing certain pathways but not as representing similar conditions.

Analogues of Multiple Personality in Psychosis

Abstract A brief discussion of taxonomic and diagnostic problems in the multiple-personality syndrome precedes presentation of theoretical considerations. The disorder is conceptualized as a category sui generis on a continuum from neurosis to psychosis. Attenuated forms are considered as pertaining to the syndrome with supporting case material.

Agoraphobia: A case study in hypnotherapy

Abstract A 58-year-old woman with a 43-year history of agoraphobia was treated with ego-supportive direct suggestion and hypnoanalytic techniques. Literature pertaining to etiological factors and treatment problems is cited. Pertinent details of the patients recent and past history are presented. The treatment plan, course of therapy, and outcome are discussed in the context of limited therapeutic goals and anticipated moderately successful results. The author advocates a psychodynamically oriented rather than technique-centered approach to hypnotherapy.

Dissociation: appearance and meaning.

Abstract Dissociation is discussed as a descriptive term for processes not directly accessible to observation but known by their consequences. Dissociative phenomena manifest themselves in what appears to be memory loss and behavioral change on a broad spectrum from normal to pathological, with dissociation proper being considered a distinct form of psychopathology of greater or lesser severity. Similarities and differences between dissociation and splitting are elaborated in relation to their maturational, developmental, and defensive aspects and functions. The theoretical background is presented as being part of psychoanalytic theory in general and object relations theory in particular. Issues pertaining to hypnosis are critically evaluated, with recognition that spontaneous autohypnotic states may occur. Phenomenology and diagnostic problems involved in dissociative states are included, and forensic issues are briefly touched on.

Transference and countertransference in hypnosis.

Abstract Spontaneous transference manifestations in experimental Ss during assessment of hypnotizability and in patients in the beginning stages of hypnotherapy are presented in the context of their management and utilization. Countertransference issues are examined.

A Psychoanalytic View of Hypnosis

Abstract Since Freud psychoanalytic hypnosis theory has evolved along with advances in psychoanalysis, e.g., psychoanalytic ego psychology. This paper traces the contributions of Freud (1953 & 1955), Ferenczi, (1950), Schilder (1956), Kubie and Margolin (1944), Gill and Brenman (1959), and Fromm (1977) toward a psychoanalytic theory of hypnosis from the early libido theory to the ego-analytic point of view.

Hypnotherapy in a case of adult nailbiting

Abstract A middle-aged female nailbiter was treated in short-term hypnotherapy. Hypotheses and observations postulated in the literature for the dynamics of the symptom in children and young adults were shown to be valid in this case of more advanced age. Light-to-medium trance proved adequate for exploration and resolution of conflicts of which nailbiting was symptomatic.

Some thoughts on the distinction between the hypnotic situation and the hypnotic condition.

Abstract The hypnotic situation is contrasted with the hypnotic condition with the aim of defining the boundaries of hypnosis proper. The hypnotic situation is presented as encompassing such parameters as compliance with suggestion, role-taking, and transference. The hypnotic condition is defined as being contingent on the presence of alterations of perception and memory and the subjective reality of the experience. Illustrative case material is presented.

An experience in autohypnosis

Abstract A personal account of an autohypnotic experience is presented. The theoretical concept of hypnosis as a potentially adaptive regression is related to the content of the report and elaborated in an ego-psychological context.