Use with hypnosis
In hypnosis, a strong rapport is necessary to achieve the trance state and also to be able to use suggestions effectively. When rapport is achieved, attention is focused and receptivity is increased; The process can be consciously designed through pacing and leading;
- In pacing (Walking along), the hypnotist uses current circumstances and behaviors as well as presumed emotional perceptions of the listener, which he describes verbally through certain speech patterns. These language patterns allow for possible interpretations of the content, which enable the listener to find their own world of experience in the words. The aim is for the listener to (inwardly) agree with what is being said; By agreeing, the listener builds trust in the speaker. Non-verbally, complementary body language can be supportive; The hypnotist goes along and signals to the listener that he recognizes him and his needs;
- When leading (leading), the hypnotist takes the leading role and can influence the listener’s breathing, for example by slowing down their own breathing.
Pacing and leading can form a circular process until the rapport is established;
Loss of rapport is when the rapport is ended by breaking through the established verbal and non-verbal communication; This can be, for example, physically turning away from the other person.
In hypnosis, suggestions that do not correspond to current experiences, needs and possibilities, such as contradictory moral concepts, contradictory physical sensations, can end the rapport or its establishment (pacing, leading). For example, (hypnotically assisted) trauma therapy can entail an increased risk of such a loss of rapport. This is not the only reason why such treatment should only be reserved for appropriately trained therapists;
The consequences of a loss of rapport can be a flattening of the trance, partial or complete withdrawal from the trance, possibly accompanied by confusion and disturbance; If necessary, a rapport in hypnosis can also be broken off without the trance being ended and the patient waking up; In this case, it is then more difficult to re-establish the rapport in order to end the hypnosis cleanly; An interrupted rapport without exiting the trance will often pass into normal sleep after a while, but previously given suggestions may remain, which would then have to be reversed by renewed hypnosis;