ABSTRACT
In this framework, hypnosis will be presented as an individual/linear event, within a system perspective, as a circular and evolving form of interaction.
The study of the family's natural tendency to induce trance is one of the best ways to learn how to utilize hypnosis with families. Specific direct and indirect techniques are required to activate family resources and induce a deep and meaningful change of the most rigid family patterns.
Indications on how to recognize the peculiar family hypnotic patterns and how to use them to bring in the therapeutic change will be given. These patterns are potentially useful to reduce reciprocal interdependence inside the family system. Yet the hypnotic approach to the family can proceed even further increasing the ability of each family member to connect and disconnect quickly and easily. Flexibility and reciprocal autonomy without losing adequate emotional contact will develop and enforce both the individuals’ and the system's resources. Special techniques aimed at establishing proper family connections will be described.
Indirect as well as direct forms of hypnosis to be used in family interviews will be presented and special attention will be offered to the criteria to combine in the most effective way direct and indirect approaches according to the different phases of the therapeutic process.
