Final answer:
In psychology, the socio-cognitive theory and dissociation theory are two primary theories of hypnosis. The socio-cognitive view sees hypnosis as a social role performance, while the dissociation theory considers it a split in consciousness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to theories of hypnosis, which is a subject within psychology. Among the provided options, the socio-cognitive theory and the dissociation theory are two established theories of hypnosis. The socio-cognitive theory posits that individuals in a hypnotic state are acting in accordance with the social role expected of a hypnotized person. It emphasizes the expectations and behaviors individuals exhibit when they understand their role in a given social situation. On the other hand, the dissociation theory, as supported by Ernest Hilgard's research, suggests that hypnosis induces a dissociated state of consciousness. In this state, people might engage in tasks, such as placing their arm in ice water without reporting pain, yet still respond to pain on a separate level of consciousness, indicating a split between different levels of awareness.
It is also worth noting that hypnosis has been observed to cause global changes in brain functioning and can be particularly effective in individuals who are highly susceptible to suggestion. Both theories offer different perspectives on explaining the hypnotic state, whether it is viewed as a separation within consciousness or as the fulfillment of a socially constructed role.
As for the unrelated options, synaptic theory pertains to neuroscience, focusing on how neurons communicate, while psychodynamic theory relates to a psychological perspective founded by Sigmund Freud, which emphasizes the influence of the unconscious mind on behavior. Neither of these directly relates to the mechanisms behind hypnosis.