What is the definition of hypnosis?

The definition of hypnosis as a state of relaxation and focused attention is accurate because hypnosis involves an altered state of consciousness where an individual becomes highly receptive to suggestion and is able to focus intently on certain thoughts, feelings, or sensations while often disregarding distractions. This process typically induces a heightened state of awareness rather than a state of sleep, enabling individuals to engage more profoundly with their thoughts and the suggestions given to them.

The state of focused attention in hypnosis allows for therapeutic applications, such as pain management, stress reduction, and behavior modification. Unlike deep sleep, the individual remains conscious and aware of their surroundings, often able to remember the experience afterward. This focused attention is a key characteristic that distinguishes hypnosis from other states, such as sleep or coma, where awareness is significantly diminished.