Involuntary, effortless responding is thought to be a key marker of responding to hypnotic suggestion (Bowers, 1982), and has been referred to as the classic suggestion effect (Weitzenhoffer, 1980). However, there is evidence of regulation of hypnotic responses, and the demonstration of active attention-demanding attempts to fulfill the requirements of hypnotic suggestions (Lynn, Rhue & Weekes, 1990). This talk will assess the evidence for effortless responding under suggestion.
