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Neurolinguistic programming in health: an analysis of the literature
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Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) was created in the 70s in California. It studies in particular three components of mental and behavioral production of human experience: neurology, language and programming. Objective of the article is a review of international literature, exclusively in the field of health related to NLP. Method: we search the following keywords: NLP, PNL (Italian acronym for NLP), LEM (Lateral Eye Movements), Eye Movement, Eye Neuro Linguistic and VAKO (which, in NLP, stands for Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, Olfactory-Gustatory) on various search engines and in PubMed, Web of Knowledge and Scopus.Results: for the word Neuro Linguistic Programming” we identified 112 articles in PubMed, but of these, only 61 actually related to the NLP. According to the keywords, we identified 7 fields of NLP literature. These are: Communication (20 articles), Training (4 articles), Personal Well-Being (4 articles), Food and nutrition (1 article), Eye movements (8 articles), Psychotherapy (21 articles), reviews and studies on its efficacy (3 articles). Conclusions: International scientific literature is divided on NLP. We find articles against NLP, some contain methodological errors in some cases simply due to the little knowledge of NLP discipline; others are in favor of NLP but samples are too small or they are qualitative studies. It therefore remains a fascinating field to study and monitor.
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... Therefore, NLP can be interpreted as an approach through communication in directing human action to change someone by doing mind guidance (Rustan, 2017). NLP has been widely used in communication, self-development and learning approaches (Pensieri, 2013). ...
... The "outcome" means that those who are communicating must understand the goals of communication and how to achieve those goals (Pensieri, 2013). Before starting the communication, one must first identify the desired goal or result, such as talking about what, conveying what message, and whether the message delivered is true and useful for the interlocutor. ...
... NLP has been widely used in communication approaches by health practitioners (Pensieri, 2013). A previous study conducted by Sturt et al. (2012) entitled "Neuro-linguistic programming: A systematic review of effects on health outcomes" found the influence of behaviour change in patients with approaches taken by health practitioners using the NLP technique. ...
This study aimed to determine the pattern of communication between nurses and elderly patients towards a healthy lifestyle through the NLP approach. It was a qualitative study using a case study method involving 6 nurses and 15 elderly patients active in Prolanis activities in Batu Ke'de village, Masalle subdistrict. The results of observations and interviews were then analysed using interactive analysis techniques from Miles and Huberman. Based on the results of observation and analysis, the study found that nurses could use the neurolinguistic programming method in communicating with the elderly which causes changes in the thinking and behaviour patterns of the elderly towards a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, the NLP method can be used by nurses as one method of communicating and influencing elderly patients by taking into account its four main pillars, which are the outcome, rapport, sensory acuity, and flexibility
... One primary criticism of NLP is its underdeveloped scientific evidence of its effectiveness (Grimley, 2016;Kotera, Sheffield, & Van Gordon, 2019;Pensieri, 2013;Pishghadam & Shayesteh, 2014;Sturt et al., 2012). The limited quality of research focused on NLP is reported in a number of review articles. ...
... PRS can, and has, often been thought of as being independent and isolated from NLP models in many cases (Elich, Thompson, & Miller, 1985;Graunke & Roberts, 1985). The true power of NLP is when the whole framework is undertaken and not fragmented into individual parts (Einspruch & Forman, 1985;Pensieri, 2013). Furthermore, the remaining Table 1. ...
... Need for quality empirical evidence (Grimley, 2016;Pensieri, 2013;Pishghadam & Shayesteh, 2014;Sturt et al., 2012). Poor regulation of practice (e.g. ...
In this paper we aim to highlight the characteristics of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and suggest possible directions for future research and study. The majority of NLP studies argue for more rigorous empirical support and standardised regulatory governance, in order to overcome academic biases and general misunderstandings. However, its popular practice for just under half a century and its global usage, suggest there is grounding for NLP to be accepted into the 'mainstream' of psychology. We compare NLP with more ‘accepted’ approaches (cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and coaching), and explore its practice regulations. While its efficiency (thorough analysis and applicability) was identified as its strength, more rigorous research and universal regulations of practice are needed for NLP to move onto the next level of acceptance.
... Despite its popularity in healthcare and organizational settings, the science of NLP has been criticized for being underdeveloped (Pensieri, 2013;Sturt et al., 2012;Thompson, Courtney, & Dickson, 2002). These criticisms not only relate to a poor level of communication between scholars and practitioners that is observed elsewhere within the field of HRD (Brown & Latham, 2018), but also to issues concerning the methodological quality of NLP research. ...
... For example, a systematic review that investigated the effects of ten healthcare-setting NLP studies concluded that the quality of the research was weak and that key reporting items were absent (Sturt et al., 2012). Another NLP literature review highlighted issues relating to researchers' understanding of NLP and whether empirical studies were assessing NLP interventions or individual NLP skills delivered in isolation from the guiding NLP framework (Pensieri, 2013). This is deemed to be a key methodological limitation because many NLP skills need to be delivered as part of a complete NLP teaching framework (Dilts, 1983;Robbins, 1995;Witkowski, 2010). ...
... However, in line with previous reviews of NLP in healthcare settings (Pensieri, 2013;Sturt et al., 2012), findings from this systematic review demonstrate that more methodologically rigorous research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of NLP for workers. More specifically, to draw reliable inferences as to the effectiveness of NLP within the wider context of HRD workplace interventions, there is a need for controlled experimental designs featuring follow-up assessments. ...
Neuro‐linguistic programming (NLP) is an approach to communication and personal development focusing on how individuals organize their thinking, feelings, and language. While a growing number of academic articles highlight the application of NLP in organizational settings, a systematic review synthesizing and evaluating the quality of this evidence has not been conducted to date. The aim of this article was to follow the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and conduct a systematic review of empirical studies evaluating the application of NLP in organizational settings. Targeted outcomes included self‐esteem, trustworthiness, organizational commitment, and occupational stress. Academic research databases used to identify articles included ProQuest, PsycINFO, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and a specific NLP database. The literature search yielded 952 titles from which seven studies met all of the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that NLP can be effective for improving a wide range of work‐related psychological outcomes including self‐esteem and occupational stress. However, there were concerns regarding methodological rigor. In general, the benefits of NLP were both overpromised and undersupported. Implications for future NLP application and research, with a focus on the relevance to current issues in the field of human resource (HR) development, are discussed.
... Some systematic reviews (Grimley, 2016) have reported a complete absence of studies meeting scientific criteria, such as those examining the effects of its application in the healthcare system, where this methodology is also frequently used. Another type of criticism relates to the difficulty of separating the effects of the method itself from skills that might have been developed through other means (Pensieri, 2013;Witkowski, 2010), suggesting a significant deficiency in the research methodology upon which conclusions have been based. ...
... In line with conclusions from similar systematic reviews on the application of NLP methodology (Kotera et al., 2019;Pensieri, 2013;Sturt et al., 2012), additional research is needed that is more methodologically sound in order to conclude the effectiveness of NLP on the working population. This includes choosing an appropriate methodological design, sample, treatments, and a detailed description of the procedures carried out, which would primarily allow for understanding and replicability of findings by future researchers. ...
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a comprehensive approach to communication and personal development, emphasizing how individuals perceive their thoughts, feelings, and interactions. Although an increasing number of academic articles highlight the application of NLP in organizational settings, and its proponents are showing greater interest in research, there remains a significant lack of studies addressing the methodological quality of research that supports these conclusions. This paper aimed to examine the effectiveness of the NLP method based on research outcomes within an organizational context and to assess the extent to which these methods adhere to contemporary scientific methodologies. The PRISMA guidelines were employed as the methodological framework for analyzing the studies. The focus was on research investigating the effects of NLP techniques on personality variables or behavior-related criteria within organizational settings. A search through research databases yielded only four relevant articles from an initial pool of 720 studies. The findings suggest that NLP may be effective in developing a broad range of psychological outcomes related to organizational behavior. However, these findings are largely questionable due to the poor methodological quality of the research, unclear reporting, and the limited number of adequately conducted studies. The paper discusses various shortcomings concerning scientific theory criteria and research design and provides recommendations for further research to rigorously examine the validity and effectiveness of NLP methods.
... Despite its acceptance in specific healthcare and organizational settings, NLP has been opposed for being unconventional [1,19]. Many of these objections are associated with insufficient communication between researchers and practitioners [20] and regarding perceptions of NLP's research deficiencies. ...
... Another NLP literature review focused on topics regarding researchers' understanding of NLP and whether or not experimental studies evaluated NLP interventions or specific NLP benefits distinct from the NLP research framework [19]. Such solicitudes are significant procedural restraints as numerous NLP skills must be applied from the a whole of the NLP teaching agenda [21,22]. ...
Neurolinguistic programming (NLP) is a psychotherapeutic approach, applying understanding and reformation of thinking and behavior in specific psychological and physical conditions. NLP differs from psychotherapies, such as hypnotherapy, counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, in that NLP aims to alter the underlying thought pattern, eliminating the hindrance. Whether or not NLP should be merged with mainstream medical practice is a matter of ongoing debate. Nevertheless, the practice of NLP leads to useful communication and rapport between doctors and patients. It remains challenging to determine the efficacy of NLP as singular therapy or combined therapy via classical research studies into such subjective matters as fear, pain, and depression. However, for many patients, NLP simply "works". This review is designed as a practical resource regarding NLP. It begins with a historical background (notable researchers and studies), reviews evidence-based research, presents indications and contraindications, highlights applications in specific conditions, such as: phobias (panic and anxiety disorders, claustrophobia, and acrophobia); post-traumatic depression and anxiety (injury, stroke, disability, and death); occupational stress; chronic pain; pregnancy; substance abuse; application and integration in medical practice; and training and certification. The design aim was to develop a succinct-go-to-resource regarding NLP for physicians, psychologists, health care providers, policymakers, and the general public.
... Despite its wide applications, the science of NLP has been criticised for being underdeveloped (Dowlen, 1996;Thompson et al., 2002;Wake, 2011;Sturt et al., 2012;Pensieri, 2013;Pishghadam and Shayesteh, 2014;. The few studies that have evaluated the effects of NLP training have focused on mental health (Sahebalzamani, 2014), self-efficacy and problem solving (Zamini et al., 2009), andcommunication skills (Gunenç et al., 2015). ...
... Elich et al., 1985;Graunke and Roberts, 1985). As Pensieri (2013) and others (Einspruch and Forman 1985;Robbins, 1995;7 Dilts, 1983) have emphasised, NLP skills should be examined within the whole NLP framework. ...
Purpose
Although numerous national and organisational level approaches have taken to improve their mental health, Japanese workers still suffer from high rates of mental health problems. Despite its worldwide application, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) has not been evaluated for these problems in-depth. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of NLP training for mental health among Japanese workers.
Design/methodology/approach
A pre-post test design with repeated measurements was used with 30 Japanese workers, who were undertaking NLP Practitioner Certification training. The effects on mental health were assessed with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale at pre-training, post-training and a three-month follow-up.
Findings
The mean scores of depression and stress decreased significantly, and mental well-being increased significantly between pre-training and post-training and between pre-training and follow-up. There was no significant difference between post-training and the follow-up for any of the measures.
Practical implications
The results suggest this training was effective for mental health of Japanese workers, and the positive effects on mental well-being were sustained.
Originality/value
This is the first ever study to empirically evaluate the effects of the regulated NLP training on the mental health of Japanese workers, conducted by researchers well-versed in NLP. This training might be conducive to improving the mental health of the Japanese workforce. Larger scale and/or controlled studies are needed.
... Although NLP appears to be reasonably well-accepted amongst the Japanese management sector, the science of NLP has been criticised for being underdeveloped (Pensieri, 2013;Sturt et al., 2012). For example, Sturt et al. (2012) systematically reviewed NLP interventions on health outcomes and concluded that much of the research was limited by major methodological issues (e.g., not reporting aims, interventions, etc.). ...
... For example, Sturt et al. (2012) systematically reviewed NLP interventions on health outcomes and concluded that much of the research was limited by major methodological issues (e.g., not reporting aims, interventions, etc.). Furthermore, other literature reviews have highlighted issues relating to researchers' lack of understanding of NLP (Pensieri, 2013). ...
Purpose
Though several work-related mental health training initiatives have been implemented in Japan, the effectiveness of such approaches remains unclear. Consequently, some Japanese corporations prefer using interventions such as neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to improve employee mental health and wellbeing. This language-based development methodology has been the subject of debate in terms of the quality of the underlying empirical evidence. However, a perspective missing from this debate is an evidence-based understanding of the first-hand experiences of employees that have undertaken NLP training. The purpose of this paper is to inform this debate by conducting a rigorous qualitative examination of the experiences of Japanese senior managers who had recently received training in NLP.
Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured interviews attended by 11 Japanese NLP master practitioners were analysed using thematic analysis.
Findings
Four themes emerged from the data set: improving work-related mental health, NLP fosters a better understanding of the mind, NLP helps to reframe perspectives relating to work and mental health, and challenges of NLP training.
Originality/value
While managers found NLP training skills such as reframing and neuro-logical levels useful to their managerial practice and mental health more generally, they raised concerns about NLP’s reputation as well as the utility of some of the techniques employed in NLP.
... In the East, such as Japan, the Society of NLP has certified over 3,000 practitioners between 2003 and 2015 (Kotera, 2018). However, during the last decade, NLP has been criticised in academia for its lack of robust scientific evaluation (Grimley, 2016;Pensieri, 2013;Pishghadam & Shayesteh, 2014;Sturt et al., 2012;Witkowski, 2010), including its ethical challenges in research and practice (Kotera & Sweet, 2019). ...
Neuro-Linguistic Programming, NLP, has been actively practised for almost a half-century. However, the science of NLP has been stagnant for decades, and ethical challenges in research and practice have been reported. This commentary raises specific ethical challenges NLP encounters, relating to the definition, boundaries with other approaches, and unpreparedness for when an intervention does not work. For NLP to further grow, possibly embedded in the national level clinical and educational practices, the NLP community must work together to address these ethical challenges. Modelling the governance of existing professional bodies may inform helpful strategies to overcome these challenges.
The direction of lateral eye movement elicited by reflective questions is strongly modified by the cognitive demands of the question; verbal and arithmetical questions elicit more movements to the right than do spatial and musical questions. This is consistent with the lateral specialization of the human brain for these cognitive processes. These results support the hypothesis that the direction of the lateral eye movement indicates the activation of the contralateral cerebral hemisphere.
Objective. To examine the effects of clinical hypnosis versus NLP intervention on the success rate of ECV procedures in comparison to a control group.
Methods. A prospective off-centre randomised trial of a clinical hypnosis intervention against NLP of women with a singleton breech fetus at or after 370/7 (259 days) weeks of gestation and normal amniotic fluid index. All 80 participants heard a 20-minute recorded intervention via head phones. Main outcome assessed was success rate of ECV. The intervention groups were compared with a control group with standard medical care alone (n = 122).
Results. A total of 42 women, who received a hypnosis intervention prior to ECV, had a 40.5% (n = 17), successful ECV, whereas 38 women, who received NLP, had a 44.7% (n = 17) successful ECV (P > 0.05). The control group had similar patient characteristics compared to the intervention groups (P > 0.05). In the control group (n = 122) 27.3% (n = 33) had a statistically significant lower successful ECV procedure than NLP (P = 0.05) and hypnosis and NLP (P = 0.03).
Conclusions. These findings suggest that prior clinical hypnosis and NLP have similar success rates of ECV procedures and are both superior to standard medical care alone.
In 2007, over 560,000 genetic tests were performed in Italy. However, only 70,154 genetic counseling sessions were conducted. Some say that non-directive counseling is necessary so that the patient understands the test results and the different options available and that the physician should not influence the patient's free choice. We need to clarify the meaning of non-directive consultation and if it is in fact possible. Each doctor has his own values and, in order to achieve the intended purpose, he will give information that, with his verbal, para-verbal and body language will guide the patient to one decision or another. Taking into account the axiom of effective communication "You can't NOT communicate", non-directive counseling is very difficult or even impossible. In genetic counseling, the knowledge that the patient receives of the correct diagnosis and related medical facts and of the applicable genetic considerations is basic to the entire process. Nonetheless, such knowledge in itself is not sufficient if it cannot be appropriately imparted to the interested person or persons. We think "persuasion" is not the right method, but instead "convince" meaning "co-win", "win together" may be the best approach to a problem of such great importance. The counselor will have achieved the desired goal with his patient if he is able to channel the emotion towards a mutually beneficial objective. The primary goal is not to persuade but to win-together (convince) with the patient and the unborn child.
This study evaluates the self-esteem of undergraduate students of nursing, that through a workshop developed mechanisms for improving their self-esteem, considering that this is the most propitious time for students to multiply health care actions. Methodology: the research was carried out with 156 undergraduate students of the third year. Socio-drama techniques of Neurolinguistics were used and the evaluation was done according to Minayo. It was possible to observe that students usually confuse self-esteem and self-image, and that both are stereotyped for for men and women. As nurses are always worried about the client/patient's life quality, they neglect themselves. In this case, the Workshops were essential for the students to rescue interior knowledge about themselves, and to realize that in order to take good care of clients/patients, they must be physically and psychologically healthy.