Perceptual positions

Perceptual positions is a neuro-linguistic programming and psychology term denoting that a complex system may look very different, and different information will be available, depending how one looks at it and one's point of view.

The idea of multiple perceptual positions in NLP was originally inspired by Gregory Bateson's double description who purported that double (or triple) descriptions are better than one. By deliberately training oneself in moving between perceptual positions one can develop new choice of responses.

One basic example in NLP training involves considering an experience (typically a relationship) from the perspective of self, other and a detached third person in that situation. It could be something that has occurred already or something that will occur in the future. This type of exercise is useful in gathering information and often new choice in the world become available without a deliberate intervention. Because of the systemic nature of human's lives, often a person in a situation cannot see answers that a person standing outside can. So by moving between different perceptual positions, one can see a problem in new ways or with greater detachment, and thus gather more information and develop new choices of response.

Another type of multiple perceptual positions involves looking at a situation from the viewpoint of the multiple people involved. For example, a strike looks very different from the viewpoint of a CEO, a worker, a customer and a supplier. A problem is almost always harder to solve if a person only appreciates their own viewpoint, and not those of others involved.

Robert Dilts uses multiple perceptual positions in his Disney Creativity Strategy. In this work, based on his modeling of Walt Disney, he teaches people to examine a goal from the perception of the Dreamer, the Realist (the one who brings it into reality), and the Critic.

Connirae Andreas and Tamara Andreas teach a procedure entitled "aligning perceptual positions". This procedure enables a user to clean up their ability to see, hear and feel things from each of the three perceptual positions by eliminating overlap from other positions.

The founders of NLP modeled this from Virginia Satir, the renowned family therapist, who at times went so far as to hold what became affectionately known as "parts parties" where she would guide a client to stand - literally - in everyone's shoes, until they understood better others' position and feelings in the matter.