What is Neuro-linguistic programming?

-Rohan Tiwary

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is a psychological approach involving evaluating and adapting techniques used by effective people to accomplish a personal objective. This links feelings, vocabulary, and behavioural habits acquired by experience to real performance.

NLP supporters believe that all human acts are optimistic. Therefore, whether a scheme fails or the unexpected occurs; the experience is not positive nor bad — it actually provides more valuable knowledge.

How neuro-linguistic programming works?

Main aspects of neuro-linguistic programming are modelling, action, and productive communication. The belief is that once a person can grasp how a task is achieved by another person; the procedure can be copied and transmitted to others so that they can perform the task as well.

Neuro-linguistic programming supporters suggest that everyone has a personal reality map. To create a comprehensive analysis of one case, those who practise NLP examine their own and other viewpoints. The NLP consumer learns information by knowing a variety of viewpoints. Advocates in this line of thought claim that the senses are vital to the interpretation of available knowledge and that each other is influenced by the body and mind. Neuro-linguistic programming is an adaptation to experience. Therefore, if a person wishes to comprehend an action, in order to benefit from the experience; they must undertake the same action.

NLP practitioners believe there are natural hierarchies of learning, communication, and change. The six logical levels of change are:

• Purpose and spirituality: This can be involvement in something larger than oneself, such as religion, ethics, or another system. This is the highest level of change.
• Identity: Identity is the person you perceive yourself to be and includes your responsibilities and the roles you play in life.
• Beliefs and values: These are your personal belief system and the issues that matter to you.
• Capabilities and skills: These are your abilities and what you can do.
• Behaviors: Behaviors are the specific actions you perform.
• Environment: Your environment is your context or setting, including any other people around you. This is the lowest level of change.

The purpose of each logical level is to organize and direct the information below it. As a result, making a change in a lower level may cause changes in a higher level. However, making a change in a higher level will also result in changes in the lower levels, according to NLP theory.

Neuro-linguistic programming research

Though minimal in quantity, the efficacy of NLP as a therapeutic tool has been explored by clinical research. In a 2013 research report, researchers examined whether the vocabulary and simulation methods used in neuro-linguistic programming can serve to properly train students with special education challenges for classroom learning. Researchers found that NLP approaches helped children develop a healthy state of mind that was conducive to learning. It was also clarified, though, that these were “brief, preliminary findings.” The study consisted of only seven children; in addition to other limiting factors.

NLP practitioners say that eye action can be an accurate lie detector predictor. In 2012, in a series of three experiments, researchers tested this assertion. The eye gestures of participants who were telling the truth or lying did not follow the suggested NLP trends in the first study. One group was advised about the NLP eye movement hypothesis in the second sample; while the control group was not. However, after a lie detector test, there was no substantial gap between both classes. In the third sample, each group’s eye gestures were coded at public press conferences. Again, between them, there was no noticeable change in eye expression.

Researchers published a comprehensive review of the effects of NLP on wellbeing in 2012. Ten reports discussing challenges such as drug misuse, anxiety, weight control, morning sickness and claustrophobia were assessed in this study. The researchers found that while there was no clear proof that NLP was unsuccessful; no proof was available to show that NLP approaches increased health.

Concerns and limitations of neuro-linguistic programming

Neuro-linguistic programming is difficult to describe as a therapy modality due , in part, to its eclectic nature. A lack of scientific data to support the many big arguments presented by advocates is perhaps the most critical drawback of neuro-linguistic programming.

Although the technique is praised by many testimonials, there have been few clinical trials to date that include solid, unbiased confirmation that it is an efficient mode of care for mental health concerns. Richard Bandler, co-founder of NLP, has also expressed dissatisfaction with NLP’s empirical research.

In addition, while lacking reliable expertise or a history in mental health, the lack of oversight in preparation and qualification has resulted in many people becoming NLP practitioners.

Want to know more about NLP and how its techniques can help you in increasing your sales? We have a workshop on “Sell Better with NLP” on the 24th of October, 4 pm.

You can register for the same right here