My husband and I recently went to the movies and saw Incredibles 2. It was a fun movie and worth the 14 year wait since the first one. However, as Hollywood tends to do, it once again promoted misconceptions about hypnosis. *SIGH* The fictional device about hypnosis was a major plot point.

A lot of movies and television shows perpetuate the myth that hypnosis will make the subject into a zombie. That the hypnotist will have complete and utter control over what the subject says and does. This is utter nonsense. Hypnosis is a normal process you move in and out of every day.

Whenever I see a show that uses the mythology of hypnosis to build their plot around, I get frustrated and annoyed. Too many people will believe that it’s true. I know. I’ve talked to them and have been dispelling this myth for 30 years. If you’d like a little more explanation about hypnosis, watch my short video, Break Your Trance.

Fortunately, this time, I was able to set aside my frustration and (after a few groans) enjoy the movie. After all, it was a cartoon. I don’t want to spoil the movie for you. If you do see it, have fun. Just remember that the part about hypnosis is as fictional as Elastigirl, Mr. Incredible or any other super hero.

~ Linda-Ann Stewart