Using hypnosis to increase self-efficacy: A case study in elite judo

An elite female judoka reported a debilitating level of self-efficacy relative to judo performance. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected via a specifically designed self-efficacy questionnaire (SEQ) that consisted of seven items relating to good judo performance. An intervention programme consisting of eight hypnosis sessions was conducted. These sessions comprised the delivery of general ego-strengthening, sport-specific ego-strengthening and self-hypnosis suggestions. A pre-performance routine using self-hypnosis was developed for use prior to training and competition. Data from the SEQ were inconclusive, as there was a trend towards higher self-efficacy prior to the intervention. However, the participant reported a positive perception of hypnosis and believed that the use of hypnosis resulted in increased self-belief during both training and competition. Although further research is needed the findings of this case study suggest that hypnosis can be used to enhance self-efficacy in sport performers.