The impact of ericksonian teaching tales on individual well-being, activity and mood

Abstract

The object of this research is Milton Erickson's method of non-directive hypnosis, according to which trance possesses a therapeutic nature, and the capacity for unconscious learning increases during a trance state. Erickson’s methodology enables the elimination of a client’s acquired conscious limitations and, through the use of teaching tales, utilizes accumulated life experiences, knowledge, and skills to shape positive behavior. The purpose of the research is to study the impact of Ericksonian therapeutic tales on changes in an individual's mental states. The research methods include a linear formative experiment and testing. The following instruments were administered: the "Well-being, Activity, and Mood" questionnaire (V. Doskin) and the Ericksonian teaching tale "Learn to Get Up" ․ The experiment was conducted in three stages: initial testing, a 21-day formative stage involving daily trance sessions, and final post-testing. Based on the experimental study, it was revealed that a teaching tale heard in a trance state activates an individual's internal resources and potential. The application of Ericksonian therapeutic tales induced significant positive shifts: mood improved by 18.4%, well-being by 13.6%, and activity by 9.1%. These results confirm that the Ericksonian method effectively facilitates psychological regulation and fosters a more constructive behavioral framework.