What is forensic hypnosis?
Forensic Hypnosis means to investigate with Hypnosis using that as a mainframe tool. Hypnosis could be defined as a state of increased receptivity to suggestion. This is characterized by an altered state of consciousness and the degree varies from very light to very deep situation. This usually includes relaxation and increased awareness.
Court's view of hypnotically refreshed recall
In states where Forensic Hypnosis is acceptable, it could be under the same admissibility. Forensic Hypnosis could vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Hence it is important for you to check the legal status to be able to use Forensic Hypnosis in your state. Forensic-investigative hypnosis involves a highly specialized application. This also calls for and needs specific training, skills. You also need to take precautions for protecting the integrity of its use or to even use that for making any determination and evaluation. This is in regards to whether it should be used in a particular criminal or civil case.
Difference between Therapeutic and Investigative Hypnosis?
Therapeutic Hypnosis is "a state-relationship within which the therapist wishes to increase healing potential. He will do everything possible to maximize the relationship with the patient. Also, he/she will change induction techniques. There is also a change in suggestions, interpretations, and all interventions. This is in order to facilitate symptom improvement. A standardized technique is not applied equally to all patients. The therapist will build this relationship with the patient very strongly. He will have many sessions with the patient. Here resistances and transference reactions are dealt with and resolved. Investigative Hypnosis refers to using Investigative Hypnosis for refreshing the memory. In the forensic application, hypnosis is applied to recover the memory of the subject. When this is one, it has to be conducted with witnesses. It has to be done and recorded by both audio and visual means. There has to be a witness present during the interview.
Types of Forensic Witnesses
There are three types of witnesses:
Fact Witness:
Here you conduct the investigative hypnosis interview. This will testify to that fact. You will testify that, yes I was called by (hiring party) for conducting an investigative interview. You must also tell that here are the procedures that I used and here are the results. There may be incidents when the opposing attorneys can call in another expert. This could be to testify as to whether you conducted the interview correctly.
Expert Witness:
Expert witness is some else who conducts the hypnosis. You would testify on the hypnosis portion only because you are the expert. As a consultant, you must ensure that your documented techniques and procedures can withstand any scrutiny by the court.
Preparation for a person to take forensic training course
Forensic Hypnotist should be prepared for having his/her total background, statements and all credentials examined under extreme conditions. This is for specific training in this field of Hypnosis and one must be proficient in the history of hypnosis. He must also be an expert in induction techniques, deepening techniques and emerging the witness/victim. For being able to do this, basic training is offered at approved hypnosis training schools.