An Automatist is an individual who performs actions without conscious awareness or voluntary control. These actions often appear spontaneous or involuntary, and are typically attributed to subconscious processes, impulses, or external stimuli. The term is frequently used in psychology, particularly in the context of automatic writing, drawing, or other forms of artistic or expressive activity where the subject claims to be channeling a source outside of their conscious self. Automatisms can range from minor physical movements to complex behaviors, and the underlying cause can vary from neurological conditions to hypnotic states.
Automatist meaning with examples
- During a seance, the medium claimed to be an Automatist, their hand guided by spirits to write messages from the deceased. The words flowed freely, seemingly independent of their conscious thought, captivating the audience. The authenticity of these automatic writings was debated but they were powerful to the devotees.
- Following a head injury, the patient displayed Automatist behaviors like sudden twitching and involuntary speech. The neurologist sought to understand the brain's functions as the cause of these unexpected actions. They monitored brain activity to identify affected areas
- The artist embraced automatism, creating abstract paintings guided by their subconscious. Using quick gestures they tried not to actively think about the images. The resulting artwork was raw and emotive. This technique proved controversial.
- Under hypnosis, the subject became an Automatist, responding to suggestions with actions they would normally never attempt. The hypnotist explored the depths of the mind, looking at how susceptible the subject was to influence. This was used in a therapy session.
- While sleepwalking, the individual became an Automatist, getting up and performing complex tasks like cooking without any conscious recollection. The sleep disorder disrupted life and required proper sleep hygiene for treatment. The family found the behaviour alarming.