[Effect of hyperventilation on depression of the EEG alpha rhythm caused by a suggested visual image].

An induction of an imagined visual sensation with the eyes closed can be regarded as a form of self-suggestion in the state of wakefulness. On receiving an instruction on imagining a visual sensation most healthy persons show a sharp weakening of disappearance of the alpha-rhythm depression on the EEG (in distinction from subjects who have not had hyperventilation). These findings point to an importance of using electroencephalography in combination with hyperventilation in psychotherapeutic practice for objective estimation of the effect of suggestion in wakefulness.