Abstract
M.A. (Clinical Psychology)
The nature of hypnosis and trance is investigated in the context of Western psychology, and traditional African healing practises. The historical development, definitions of nature of hypnosis and trance, and theoretical background of both these phenomena are described.
Similarities and differences between Western hypnosis and African trance are described. Western hypnosis and African trance are found to be embedded in the context which provides their meaning. The similarities and differences between the African healing trance induction process and the Western context of hypnotherapy are
discussed in terms of the ecosystemic theories. The content and characteristics of hypnosis in these two spheres are not seen as important as is the context and process of these phenomena. It is found that the expected characteristics of hypnosis in Western
psychotherapy, and traditional African trance states, and the similarities and differences between them, are not absolute realities, but rather culturally shaped experiences which people come to expect.