Calvin told his therapist that he wanted to stop smoking. During the next visit, Calvin's therapist directed Calvin to focus deeply on the sound of his voice. The therapist then told Calvin to relax and that he would soon begin to feel tired. As Calvin's eyes closed, he was told to do a number of other things to which he complied. By the end of the session, Calvin no longer craved cigarettes. What happened?

• A. Calvin was tricked into thinking that smoking was bad for him.
• B. Calvin allowed himself to be hypnotized.
• C. Calvin was regressed back to childhood to a time when he did not smoke.
• D. Calvin was hypnotized against his will.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of hypnosis in psychology. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation.
2. Recognize the signs of hypnosis in the scenario: Calvin's therapist directed him to focus deeply on the sound of his voice, which is a common technique used to induce hypnosis.
3. Note the therapist's instructions for Calvin to relax and feel tired, which are typical steps in guiding someone into a hypnotic state.
4. Observe Calvin's compliance with the therapist's suggestions, indicating that he was in a state of heightened suggestibility, a key characteristic of hypnosis.
5. Conclude that Calvin allowed himself to be hypnotized, as he followed the therapist's directions and experienced a change in his craving for cigarettes, which aligns with the therapeutic goals of hypnosis.