Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Nicholas Spanos was a psychologist known for his research on hypnosis and suggestion. He argued against the concept of hypnotic trance states and instead proposed that hypnosis is merely role-playing based on social expectations.
Related terms
Hypnotic Suggestibility: The degree to which an individual is responsive to standardized suggestions used in hypnosis. It's like how some people are more likely to follow a recipe exactly, while others might deviate and add their own twist.
Role Theory: This is the perspective in social psychology that considers most of everyday activity to be the acting out of socially defined categories (e.g., mother, manager, teacher). It's like everyone has a script for different roles they play in life.
The effect that the words, actions, or mere presence of other people have on our thoughts, feelings, attitudes, or behavior. Imagine your friends convincing you to try a new food - their influence can change your attitude towards it.