For which of the following would hypnosis probably be most effective?

• A. Changing eating habits
• B. Helping people to stop smoking
• C. Curing alcoholism
• D. Controlling pain

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of hypnosis: Hypnosis is a trance-like state of focused attention and increased suggestibility, often used in therapeutic settings.
2. Consider the effectiveness of hypnosis: Hypnosis is most effective for conditions that involve psychological and physiological components, such as pain management.
3. Evaluate the options: Changing eating habits, stopping smoking, and curing alcoholism involve complex behavioral and psychological factors that may not respond as well to hypnosis alone.
4. Focus on pain control: Hypnosis has been shown to be effective in controlling pain by altering the perception of pain and reducing anxiety associated with it.
5. Conclude that hypnosis is most effective for controlling pain due to its ability to influence perception and suggestibility, which are crucial in pain management.