Members,
Last week we asked you to keep track of how many times you are falling into problematic communication patterns. Today, we will explore a strategy referred to as reframing. This technique is also helpful during disputes and to gain better control over anger.
Reframing is about changing perception by understanding something in another way.
What reframing does is to say, � Look, this external thing occurs and it elicits this response in you, so you assume that you know what the meaning is. But if you thought about it this other way, then you would have a different response. � Being able to think about things in a variety of ways builds a spectrum of understanding. None of these ways are 'really' true, though. They are simply statements about a person's understanding.(1)
There are two basic kinds of reframes: context reframing and content reframing. Both can alter our internal representations of events or situations, which permits us to experience the events in other, hopefully, more resourceful ways.(1)
Context reframing offers an understanding of how we make meaning through the environment - physical, intellectual, cultural, historical, and emotional - in which a situation occurs. It can also provide a pattern of thinking that helps us see the value in every situation regardless of any perceived downside.(1)
Context reframing is taking an experience that seems to be negative, not useful, and distressing and showing how the same behavior or experience can be useful in another context. Children's stories are full of reframes designed to show children how what might seem a liability can be useful in another context. For example, the other reindeer made fun of Rudolph's bright, red nose; but that funny nose made Rudolph the hero on a dark night.(1)
Context reframing can be used as a "perceptual filter," taught and practiced until it becomes an integral and habitual way of organizational thinking. It is a very useful tool in business as it is the way of thinking that gives one the ability to make lemonade from those unexpected (and unwanted) lemons. Creativity, new visions, innovations are commonplace for those who know to reframe and recontextualize problems and obstacles into opportunities and resources.(1)
A context reframe is useful for statements such as: �I am too pushy.� or �I wish I did not focus on what could go wrong.� In this type of situation, the individual has assumed that this type of behavior has no value. You can discover when it is of value by asking yourself the question �When or where would this behavior be useful or viewed as a resource?� A possible reframe might be: �Isn�t that a great skill to have when I�ll need to get things done or to avoid potential problems?� Once you have reframed your problem you can begin to explore behaviors that may be more appropriate in other situations.(2)
Almost all behaviors are useful or appropriate in some context. Interrupting a speaker by standing up and offering your view in the middle of her lecture may be judged as inappropriate. To do this same behavior at the end of the presentation in order to provide a different perspective may be welcomed by all present.(2)
Tune in on Thursday when we will be exploring content reframing!
1. Sandidge, R.L. & Ward, A.C. (1999) Quality Performance in Human Services. Retrieved February 18, 2008. http://www.successmeasures.com/reframing.htm#top
2. Ellerton, R. (2004). Live Your Dreams Let Reality Catch Up : NLP and Common Sense for Coaches, Managers and You. Retrieved February 18, 2008, http://www.renewal.ca/nlp20.htm
Brenna, Bilingual Health Educator
