Forensic hypnotherapy applies hypnosis for law enforcement investigative purposes. It is used to delve into the memories of victims or witnesses to pull out details that may be repressed or simply forgotten.
History
The use of hypnosis in criminal investigations began in the 1950s. In the 1970s, Dr. Martin Reiser, director of the Los Angeles Police Department's Behavioral Science Services, further researched and developed methods for training investigators on use forensic hypnotherapy when interviewing witnesses. These techniques were used to enhance recall during the interview process.
How It Works
The subject is made to concentrate and focus his attention on a particular aspect of the case. Through either light or heavy hypnosis, a person is induced to become more relaxed and aware. The goal is to refresh his memory.
Benefits
Forensic hypnotherapy can enhance a witness' memory and move an investigation along faster and more productively to help law enforcement solve a case.
Pitfalls
Evidence obtained through forensic hypnotherapy is not always admissible in court. Because memories can be created through hypnotic suggestion, questions often arise about its accuracy and reliability.
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