Content area
Full Text
Abstract
Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) as an effective interpersonal communication model and an alternative approach to psychotherapy is used quite frequently in corporate, health and education sectors. Practitioners of NLP provide intervention in the fields of relaxation, phobia, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), allergy as well as in peak performance training. While it seems quite fascinating to see a wide range of practitioners in the field, the trend also warrants possible misuse of the concept. The efficacy of NLP as a therapy or as a personal development program is yet to be ascertained. Till date, NLP is applied without a theory. The scientific community seems not serious, when its practitioners claim that "NLP is heavily pragmatic: if a tool works, it's included in the model, even if there is no theory to back it up.....", thus, discouraging a scientific inquiry. The title neurolinguistic programming implies a basis in neurology (lacks evidence), computer science, and linguistics, but marketed as a new science or new age form of psychotherapy, judged simply pseudoscientific by the skeptics. These views made scientific research in this field less appealing among researchers. A review on the current trends and practices in NLP is presented here with a direction for future research in the field.
Keywords : NLP, Interpersonal communication, personal development, programming
INTRODUCTION
NLP or Neurolinguistic Programming is a methodology for helping make changes in people's lives. This is also described as a 'manual for the brain' which teaches how to get the results we want. The field of NLP is loosely spread and resistant to a single comprehensive definition. Understanding of the concept comes from some common principles and presuppositions shared by its proponents. These principles and presuppositions are goal-oriented. According to the co-creators of the concept Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the 1970s, NLP is the tool to achieve goals. It aims at increasing behavioral flexibility, (i.e., choice) by the manipulation of subjective experience (either by a practitioner/trainer or by self-application). An overview of the models, representational systems, principles, presuppositions and techniques of NLP would help us understand the concept.
Models
The founders of NLP believe that, experts in human communication all have a similar approach, and it is this approach (and not the technical skills) which distinguishes...