Reframing (NLP)


 * ''This article is about reframing, a Neuro-linguistic programming method. For reframing in cinematography, please see Reframing (film technique)

Reframing is a technique in Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) where an undesirable behavior or trait is conferred a positive intention. Alternatives to satisfy the positive intent are found, followed by negotiations with (parts of) self to resolve conflict, check for ecology and to implement the new behavior. Reframing can also be used in (NLP) to describe changing the context or representation of a problem. More precisely, one of the most effective techniques for achieving almost any desired change in NLP is the "six step re-frame".

In psychotherapy, after irrational beliefs have been identified the therapist will often work with the client by challenging negative thoughts on the basis of evidence, reframing experiences in a more realistic or positive light. This can help clients to develop more rational beliefs and healthy coping strategies.

Reframing occurs in life regardless of NLP, and is a common means by which meanings get created and lost in various situations, either deliberately or by happenstance.

Examples
...when discussion is held about "tax relief," two historic understandings of taxation are lost: that taxes are the cost of admission to a civil society, and that those who want to evade taxes yet still use public assets like fire and police protection are freeloaders. Instead, taxes are cast [reframed] as something oppressive, from which we need relief. What is not stated is that a "fair" level of taxation is in the eye of the beholder. Liberals who value government services reframe the tax question in terms of the cost of living in a modern society. Libertarians who want more value for their tax money reframe the question in terms of why the government is involved at all, and the fact that excessive taxing allows the government to do more than it is charged to do.

Six Step Reframe
The Six-Step Reframe is an NLP technique used to replace an unwanted behavior or bad habit with a more desirable one - while keeping the benefits, or secondary gain, of the old behavior.

NLP presupposes that "every behavior has a positive intention," and that any undesirable behavior a person has will also have a positive benefit behind it (often unconsciously).

The Six-Step Reframe uses a mild trance state, negotiation, and creativity from unconscious resources to change the "part" that's causing the behavior.

1. Identify the behavior to change

2. Set up signals with the part causing the behavior

3. Identify the positive intention behind the behavior

4. Generate a number of possible alternative behaviors which will equally satisfy the same intent

5. Choose the favored three replacement behaviors

6. Check to see if there is any other internal conflict regarding the change.

Context Reframing
The meaning of any behaviour or event exists only in relationship to the context in which it occurs.

Every behaviour is appropriate in some context. With a context reframe a person takes the disliked behaviour and asks, "Where could this behaviour be useful?" or  "In what other context would this particular behaviour be of value?"

A context reframe leaves the meaning of a behaviour the same and shows how it could be a useful response in a different context.

For example:

A: "I procrastinate all the time; I just can't get things done." B: "That's a great skill to have; especially when you apply it to overeating - just put off having that second helping. Lucky you." A: "I'll start my diet tomorrow."