A systematic ('Delphi') approach to creating hypnotic scripts: A case learned from women undergoing breast cancer surgery

Research studies examining the effectiveness of hypnotic interventions are based on hypnotic scripts designed for research populations under enquiry. Generic scripts should be inclusive enough to encompass interpersonal differences, while being specific enough to generate individual therapeutic change. Studies do not describe the process of hypnotic script development, and the literature does not provide any systematic methodology to guide therapists and researchers in developing hypnotic scripts. The lack of standardization in script development may impair both the internal and external validity of studies using hypnotic scripts. The article will describe a suggested model which employs the Delphi technique in composing hypnotic scripts for clinical and research purposes, using the case of women undergoing breast cancer surgery in our medical centre.