What is the Spiegel eye roll test?

The Spiegel eye roll test is a method used to assess an individual's hypnotizability. It was developed based on the observation that there is a correlation between one's ability to maintain an upward gaze while the eyelids are closed and their susceptibility to hypnosis. Here's how the test is performed:

1. The individual tilts their head back slightly and looks up at the ceiling, directing their gaze upwards while keeping the eyes open.
2. Then, they attempt to close their eyelids while maintaining the upward gaze.
3. The test observer checks for the movement of the eyes during this process:
   • If the eyes roll back (showing more of the white part of the eyes, the sclera), it suggests a higher level of hypnotizability.
   • If the eyes move downward (showing more of the colored part of the eye, the iris), it indicates a lesser degree of hypnotizability.

This test involves giving contradictory signals to the cranial nerves that control eye movement and eyelid closure, which are also associated with different levels of consciousness. The capacity to perform this contradictory action is what the test measures as an indicator of one's potential for entering hypnotic states 1.