Asexuality & Hypnosis - Can Humans Change Sexual Orientation?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using hypnosis or other psychological methods to turn a heterosexual human into an asexual, meaning losing all sexual attraction or desire. This is a complex topic as sexuality is deeply rooted in our brains. The speaker questions how hypnosis could affect this and whether it is even a real phenomenon. They also mention the existence of asexuals and wonder about the cause and if it could potentially be induced through hypnosis. The conversation then shifts to discussing the effects of hypnotism and whether it is a real practice, with some sources and research provided.
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Can male or female heterosexual humans become asexual using hypnosis or someother psychological method? And by asexual, i mean losing any kind of sexual attraction or desire. As I understand sexual attraction is not only hormons, but hard-wired chemicals in our minds. Do you know any past or current research about the subject?
 
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Sexuality is deep-rooted in our brains, one of the most basic functions. I don't know how hypnosis could affect it. In fact, isn't hypnosis a myth?
 
  • #3
I know asexuals exist, but do not know the cause of it. My bet is that its possible. One can make people believe they are pigs(?), and make them see blue colors as red, so why not asexual? Maybe a trick would be needed such as evoking disgust when seeing other humans.

And i wonder when a male is hypnotised to feel female, if he will be attracted to males.
 
  • #4
So hypnotism is real?
 
  • #5
It works in a certain way yes. Heres a NY times story:

http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/9600/hypnosis0ep.jpg [Broken]
http://www.rickross.com/reference/brainwashing/brainwashing48.html [Broken]

And here is research about it:

CONCLUSIONS: Among highly hypnotizable subjects, observed changes in subjective experience achieved during hypnosis were reflected by changes in brain function similar to those that occur in perception. These findings support the claim that hypnosis is a psychological state with distinct neural correlates and is not just the result of adopting a role.

http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/157/8/1279
 
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1. What is asexuality and how does it differ from other sexual orientations?

Asexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by a lack of sexual attraction or desire towards others. Unlike other sexual orientations, asexual individuals do not experience sexual attraction towards any gender or may experience it rarely. Asexuality is not the same as celibacy, as celibacy is a choice to abstain from sexual activity, while asexuality is a lack of sexual attraction.

2. Can a person's sexual orientation change over time?

Sexual orientation is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human identity that is not easily changed. While some individuals may experience shifts in their sexual orientation, it is not something that can be actively changed or influenced by outside factors, such as hypnosis. Asexuality is a valid and natural sexual orientation that cannot be changed or "cured".

3. Is there a link between asexuality and hypnosis?

No, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that hypnosis can change a person's sexual orientation. Asexuality is not a psychological issue that can be "cured" through hypnosis, as it is a natural aspect of a person's identity. Hypnosis may be used to address underlying psychological issues, but it cannot change a person's sexual orientation.

4. Can asexual individuals benefit from hypnosis?

Hypnosis may be used to help asexual individuals explore and understand their feelings and experiences surrounding their sexuality. It may also be used to address any underlying psychological issues that may be causing distress. However, it is important to note that hypnosis cannot change a person's sexual orientation.

5. Are there any harmful effects of using hypnosis to try and change sexual orientation?

The use of hypnosis, or any other form of conversion therapy, to change a person's sexual orientation is not only ineffective but also harmful. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-hatred, as well as other psychological and emotional traumas. Asexuality is a valid and natural sexual orientation, and any attempts to change it can be damaging to a person's mental health and well-being.

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