APA Dictionary of Psychology

a suggestion designed to test for and deepen an individual’s hypnotic susceptibility. It usually consists of a simple physical command. For example, the hypnotist may say, “You want to close your eyes”: If the individual immediately does so, the hypnotist may conclude that this person is highly suggestible and has entered a state of hypnosis. Compliance with the challenge suggestion may also increase the individual’s sense of being without volitional power and reduce their ability to reject subsequent suggestions. Also called challenge test. See also hypnotic rigidity; ideomotor suggestion.