Ideomotor phenomenon
Ideomotor Phenomenon
Ideomotor phenomenon (/ˌaɪdiəˈmoʊtər fəˈnɑːmɪnən/) is a psychological concept that refers to the influence of suggestion or expectation on involuntary and unconscious motor behavior. The term was first used in the 19th century by William Benjamin Carpenter, an English physician, who described the phenomenon in his work.
Etymology
The term "Ideomotor" is derived from the Greek words "idea" (meaning "form" or "pattern") and "motor" (meaning "moving"). The phenomenon refers to the idea that a thought or mental image can bring about a seemingly "automatic" or unconscious physical reaction, often of minuscule degree, and potentially outside of the awareness of the subject.
Explanation
The ideomotor phenomenon is a classic example of how suggestions can influence behavior. The phenomenon is often used to explain the workings of various pseudoscientific procedures such as dowsing, facilitated communication, and Ouija boards. In these instances, the individuals unknowingly move the instrument or pointer in response to the thoughts or ideas they have in their mind, without any external force being applied.
Related Terms
- Automatic writing: A claimed psychic ability allowing a person to produce written words without consciously writing, often associated with the ideomotor phenomenon.
- Carpenter effect: Named after William Benjamin Carpenter, it refers to the observation that directional thoughts can produce small, unconscious movements.
- Cleidomancy: A form of divination using a suspended key as a pendulum, also related to the ideomotor phenomenon.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ideomotor phenomenon
- Wikipedia's article - Ideomotor phenomenon
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