Final answer:
Hypnosis is more widely used in Europe than in the United States as a form of therapy, particularly effective in individuals open to suggestion, and differs from meditation in its practice and focus on suggestibility. It's used for various therapeutic purposes and involves global changes in brain functioning, supported by different theories including dissociation and social-cognitive perspectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypnosis is more widely used in Europe than in the United States as a form of therapy. It is a therapeutic technique involving a state of extreme self-focus and attention. In contrast to some skepticism due to its portrayal in media, hypnosis, when used in a clinical setting, usually results in the patient having clear memories and control of their behavior. Studies on hypnosis have shown that it involves global changes in brain functioning and can be particularly effective in individuals highly susceptible to suggestion, assisting in areas such as pain management, and the treatment of depression, anxiety, smoking cessation, and weight loss. It is also used to enhance memory or skills, although such enhancements are typically modest.
While both hypnosis and meditation involve altered states of consciousness, they differ significantly. Hypnosis is achieved through the interaction between a therapist and a patient, with a focus on the power of suggestion and altering behaviors or experiences. On the other hand, meditation is an act of focusing to increase awareness of the present moment, which can be practiced alone or with guidance.
There are different theories on how hypnosis works. The dissociation theory suggests that hypnosis is a dissociated state of consciousness, supported by research on hypnosis and pain that shows a separation between conscious experience and sensory perception. Whereas the social-cognitive theory suggests that individuals in a hypnotic state are complying with social roles and expectations, behaving in accordance to what they believe is expected of a hypnotized person.