Guidelines for forensic hypnosis

Abstract

The past 20 years have witnessed a dramatic increase in the forensic use of hypnosis. While often very productive, hypnotic interrogation also presents potential for abuse. Because forensic hypnosis has been unregulated and, at times, inappropriately used, some state courts have ruled that hypnotically enhanced recall is inadmissible as evidence. The following guidelines were developed in an attempt to standardize forensic hypnosis procedures and eliminate potential for abuse. The credentials and conduct of the hypnotist are delineated and procedural guidelines for the referring party are provided.