Hypnotizability and absorption in a Danish sample: Testing the influence of context

This study tests the validity of a Danish translation of the Tellegen Absor ption Scale (TAS) by investigating the correlation between scores on the TA S and a previously validated Danish translation of the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility (HGSHS:A) in a sample of 168 subjects. Mean TAS and HGSHS:A scores were comparable to those found in U.S. samples. The corr elation between absorption and hypnotizability was calculated for scores ob tained in the same session (n = 84) and for scores obtained independently i n 2 sessions taking place 2 to 12 months apart (n = 84). The results showed a significant relationship between absorption and hypnotizability when abs orption was assessed in the hypnotic context. A significant association was also found when absorption and hypnotizability were assessed independently . The findings support the construct validity of the Danish translation of the TAS and reaffirm results of previous studies suggesting that absorption is an important predictor of hypnotizability.