Reframing (NLP)

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

The technique of reframing in NLP involves confirming positive intention(s) behind the behavior(s) that one seeks to change (usually an undesirable trait of behavior). 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(s).Reframing is also used in neuro-linguistic programming (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".

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 hapstance):

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.

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

NLP presupposes that "every behaviour has a positive intention," and that any undesirable behaviour 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 behaviour.

1. Identify the behavior to change

2. Set up Yes/No 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."