A Modern Hypnosis Dictionary: The Letter Y
- Yes Set - Refers to an technique outlined by M. Erickson where the conversation between the therapist and patient is intentionally structured in such a way that the patient must respond with the word "yes" (in other words obtaining a positive rather than a negative response). This sets a positive mood for interaction and begins the re-framing process. It is also possible to use the momentum of the repetitive response to have someone agree to something without full consideration. Sales people often utilise this technique by asking a series of innocuous questions for which the answer can only be "yes" followed quickly a line such as "so you want to buy this then?" When the unwary will often answer "yes" without due thought.
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Tom Connelly© connelly@hypnos.co.uk