Neuro-linguistic Programming Methods

There are several methods used for performing Neuro-linguistic Programming on an individual for obtaining insights into the psyche of the person in order to correct to modify certain patterns of behavior. These techniques are also used for Neuro-linguistic training for individuals who seek to bring about certain positive changes in their lives.

Introduction

Neuro-linguistic Programming states that our perception of an experience depends not only on the external stimuli, but also on what our senses capture and our mind interprets employing our preset notions, beliefs, assumptions and value system. Thus, our response to the external stimuli or experience is dependent on this perceived image of the world, using the emotions, feelings and thoughts we go through during that event.

Neuro-linguistic Programming states that when we put an experience into words, the words are key indicators of the underlying thoughts and feelings that we experienced during that event. Therefore, by listening, questioning and understanding the language and choice of words used by an individual, we can create a highly structured model of his behavior and response. This model can then be analyzed to eliminate any problems faced by the individual. We can also model the positive or successful aspects of our behavior or those of another person, and reproduce that model and apply on our negative aspects in order to change or improve them.

A successful person exhibits a certain behavior, beliefs and line of thought. If we can model these inherent attributes of the success, and apply them in our day-to-day lives, any common individual can also reach their highest potential and zenith of success. There are several self-help books available that offer these techniques through Neuro-linguistic courses for self-starters.

The concept of map is an important aspect of Neuro-linguistic programming. A map is defined as the perception of an individual pertaining to the external world. As per the Neuro-linguistic courses, our language, body and mind interact with each other and reflect the underlying feelings and emotions. A map that is unrealistic and impoverished is due to undesirable set of beliefs, emotions and thoughts and usually is the cause for the individual’s problems. On the other hand, the map of a successful individual contains the right set of feelings, thoughts and values, which can then translate on to another individual to expect similar kind of results. By altering the individual’s map or internal portrait of the world, a certain behavior or positive attitude can be attained.

Several eclectic techniques can be used to bring about a change in the thinking, learning and communication skills of an individual. Some methods can include hypnosis as well. Some Neuro-linguistic Programming methods have been designed by heavy influence from techniques used in other fields as well.

One of the methods included in Neuro-linguistic training is anchoring. This method relies on the fact that individuals usually form an anchor or make an association between an emotional state of mind or a feeling and a sight, sound, smell or touch. Once an association has been made, every time an individual experiences that particular external stimulus, he will make a connection to the anchor, and remember that same feeling or thought. The unique stimulus is thus a trigger for a particular feeling or emotional state. Using anchoring technique, a therapist trained in Neuro-linguistic courses can deliberately create an anchor for a patient, and then trigger the particular unique stimulus to help the patient access desired emotions or a target state of mind. Anchoring technique is said to have been derived from the family therapy of Virginia Satir and incorporated in Neuro-linguistic programming.

Another method of Neuro-linguistic Programming uses the swish method where a train of thought of an individual is modified such than undesirable behavior can be converted to a desirable one. A visual cue is usually used to get rid of unwanted habits such as smoking, drinking, addiction, over eating etc. The brain is programmed to swish from a negative pattern of thought or a negative image to a positive one. Audible sounds are sometimes added to the visual image to enhance the effect of the method. For example, an individual thinks of a negative aspect that he wants to improve, and then picturize himself to have a positive quality. Every time he comes across the negative image, he will swish it into the positive one, eliminating his fears, addiction or worries.

Next Page: Reframing Technique within Neuro-linguistic Training