CAHSS Faculty Articles
Participating in the Culture of Cancer: A Demilitarized Approach to Treatment
Department
Department of Family Therapy
Publication Date
9-1997
Publication Title
Contemporary Hypnosis
ISSN
1557-0711
Volume
14
Issue/No.
3
First Page
182
Last Page
188
Abstract
This case study describes the use of hypnosis with an anthropologist diagnosed with breast cancer. The therapist utilized the client's sense of identity as a qualitative researcher, as well as her knowledge of and respect for indigenous cultures, to help her actively engage in her chemotherapy treatment and to help her better tolerate the side-effects of the medication. He also used hypnosis to attempt to improve the functioning of her immune system, employing, at her request, an alternative approach to standard military-based images. Considering immunity to be a cognitive process, the therapist designed metaphors that focused on improving the immune system's ability to perceive, learn, and achieve balance.
NSUWorks Citation
Flemons, D. G., & Shulimson, J. A. (1997). Participating in the Culture of Cancer: A Demilitarized Approach to Treatment. Contemporary Hypnosis, 14 (3), 182-188. Retrieved from https://nsuworks.nova.edu/shss_facarticles/8