ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the hypnosis led to greater reporting of memories during recall for high-sense stimuli but not low-sense stimuli. Subjects in the nonhypnotic condition were not provided with information about the effects of hypnosis on memory. One of the most exciting current and future directions of research is the study of the types of instructions and hypnotic suggestions that may improve, rather than hinder memory. Clearly, additional research is called for that specifies the conditions of hypnotic and nonhypnotic recall associated with increases and decreases in memory performance. The research reviewed can provide guidance to courts in determining whether to admit or bar hypnotically elicited testimony. It is incumbent on experts who testify regarding the admissibility of hypnotically elicited testimony to present a comprehensive, balanced, and up-to-date description of the latest research findings, such as those reported by Wagstaff, to facilitate decisions regarding the admissibility of hypnotically augmented testimony.
