Common steps and sub-activities
Confusion created by questioning the person's sense of what is reality
This is best shown by an example. In the following there is the suggestion that the person doesn't actually know where they are, so there is an element of confusion introduced and hence befuddling, because the person will think they do know where they are; but the suggestion is couched in a question that serves to further confuse, because how can the person answer the question when they thought they did know where they were. Added to this apparently simple masterpiece of language is the word 'enjoy' which ensures the whole befuddling is non-threatening.
Hypnotic Realities – Milton Erickson
Do you enjoy
not knowing where you are?
In the following there is the suggestion that when the person opens their eyes, they won't be able to see their hands. But the person knows their hands are normally visible, so here we have a test of reality. Add to this the question which implies that this is actually what will happen, it is only a matter of time and we have a very effective befuddling sentence. The use of the word willing implies a sense of no obligation, so reinforces this no threat, no obligation environment in a situation that might appear a bit threatening otherwise.
Hypnotic Realities – Milton Erickson
How soon
do you think
you will be willing
to open your eyes
and not see your hands?