How Hypnotic Resistance Manifests:

How Hypnotic Resistance Manifests:

Hypnotic resistance is when a person — consciously or unconsciously — opposes entering hypnosis or resists suggestions given during trance. It’s not always defiance; often, it’s a protective response. 

Here are the main ways it manifests:

1. Before Induction (Pre-hypnosis resistance)

• Skepticism or disbelief — “I don’t think this will work on me.”
• Overanalyzing — trying to logically evaluate everything the hypnotist says.
• Fear of loss of control — reluctance to “let go” or trust the process.
• Testing the hypnotist — intentionally withholding cooperation.

2. During Induction

• Surface compliance — the person pretends to go along but keeps a mental guard.
• Excessive fidgeting — moving, coughing, or shifting to avoid relaxing deeply.
• Keeping eyes open — resisting the natural closing of eyes when guided.
• Inner dialogue — thinking “this isn’t working” instead of following suggestions.

3. During Trance / Suggestion Phase

• Literal interpretation — resisting by taking suggestions overly literally.
• Contradictory responses — saying “I can’t imagine that” when invited to visualize.
• Emotional block — discomfort with vulnerable feelings or memories emerging.
• Selective hearing — ignoring or rejecting specific suggestions.

4. Post-hypnosis

• Denial of depth — claiming “I wasn’t hypnotized” even though signs were present.
• Amnesia resistance — refusing to “forget” or undoing post-hypnotic suggestions.
• Rationalizing — explaining away the effects to maintain control.

Clinically, resistance may not be “bad.” It usually signals the person’s need for safety, autonomy, or clarification. Skilled hypnotists often work with resistance — using it as feedback — rather than fighting it.

Shervan K Shahhian