Physiological differences between subjects highly (Highs) and low susceptible to hypnosis (Lows) have been demonstrated for motor (12, 13, 55, 56, 57, 58) and vegetative functions (20, 27, 59, 60) as well as for EEG patterns (16, 19, 20, 53, 59) in basal awake conditions. Such differences can be modulated by a hypnotic induction and/or by specific suggestions. In fact, Highs exhibit a peculiar cognitive flexibility (15), based on specific imagery, attentional/disattentional and "absorption" capabilities which can be evaluated through psychological tests (36, 37, 65) and allow them to experience an altered perception. They can easily select the object of their attention, in both awake and hypnotic conditions, and change their physiological setting accordingly. For instance, they can control their vestibular nystagmus (4), lower "involuntarily" their arms during suggestions of heaviness (58), experience suggested fear, happiness (16, 20,59, 60) and analgesia (17, 19, 22, 24, 28, 50) as well as modulate their peripheral responses to pain (7, 18, 21, 23, 32, 54). The Highs' cognitive characteristics, which let them accept suggestions, include a capability to tolerate ambiguous information (66), even at a sensory level (43, 47), likely as a part of a better compliance of Highs towards subjective and environmental events (30, 55, 56, 59, 60, 72).
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