Sources of information about hypnosis and attitudes towards being hypnotized in Hong Kong

Abstract

Extending earlier Chinese studies that examined beliefs and attitudes towards hypnosis and its applications, the present article explores the sources from which Chinese people encounter information about hypnosis. Two samples, with a total of 541 Chinese respondents, were included in the present study: (a) college students, and (b) medical and mental health-related professionals. Significant preferences for information sources were noted between the professional and student participants. However, the current results indicate that any discrepancies between the Chinese students and Chinese professionals regarding their beliefs and attitudes towards hypnosis are not likely to be moderated by the sources from which they receive their information. Rather than demonstrating public media and information sources to be ineffective in modifying beliefs and attitudes towards hypnosis, the current results reveal a lack of direct or indirect experience of hypnosis among the Chinese, and a severe inadequacy of public education about hypnosis and its applications.