Mapping / Representation / Mapping

Definition

In NLP, mapping refers to a specific form of observation and calibration where inner representations, particularly preferred representational systems and eye access movements, are made visible and mapped.

Through mapping, an NLP practitioner can systematically determine which inner processes a client prefers to use, such as visual, auditory or kinaesthetic representations, and how these manifest in non-verbal signals such as eye movements, speech, breathing or body posture. A personalised 'map' of the individual's representation patterns is created.

Thus, mapping is a diagnostic subprocess within NLP communication that forms the basis for many interventions.

Origin and Theoretical Background

The concept of mapping in NLP is based on the fundamental assumption that inner mental processes are reflected in external signals – a central theme of the early NLP research by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. The systematic capture of these patterns through calibration was referred to as 'mapping'.

Influences

Gregory Bateson: Systems thinking and communication
Milton Erickson: Use of nonverbal signals in hypnosis
Noam Chomsky: Transformational grammar as the basis for language pattern analysis

In NLP, mapping is often used in connection with the eye access cue model, the preferred representational system, and the strategic analysis of mental processes.

Application Examples

A coach systematically observes a client's eye movements to determine whether they primarily use visual (upward), auditory (sideways), or kinesthetic (downward) representations when recalling an experience.
In an NLP seminar, mapping is used to identify participants' preferred learning accesses and select appropriate methods.
In a therapy session, the therapist maps a client's strategies for accessing emotional states – for example, whether feelings are triggered by inner images or inner self-talk.

Areas of Application

Coaching: Exploring strategies for motivation, decision-making, self-management
Therapy: Identifying triggers, inner images, or dialogical patterns
Leadership training: Improving communication through better perception of employee patterns
Learning coaching: Recognizing preferred learning styles and optimizing teaching strategies
Sales training: Capturing customer response patterns for targeted conversation management

Methods and Exercises

Mapping of eye access cues: Ask targeted questions (e.g., 'Remember your mother's face') and observe the eye movements; documentation on a notepad (visual/constructed, auditory/remembered, etc.).
Representational systems mapping: Observe verbal cues (predicates), breathing, posture, and tone of voice to recognize the preferred sensory modality (e.g., visual: 'I see that clearly', auditory: 'That sounds good', kinesthetic: 'That feels right').
Strategy mapping: Break down inner processes into a sequence of representations, e.g.:
1. Inner image
2. Inner dialogue
3. Feeling

Synonyms or Related Terms

Calibrating (overarching term)
Strategy analysis
eye accessing cues
Perception calibration
Observe sensory channels

Distinction

Mapping is more specific than calibrating, as it not only includes perception but also the structured creation of a 'mental map' of the inner processes of the counterpart.

Scientific or Practical Benefit

Practical

Better understanding of individual thinking, learning, and decision-making strategies
Foundation for tailored interventions in coaching and therapy
Strengthening rapport and communication through conscious adaptation to the counterpart's system

Scientific

The exact validity of eye movement patterns is disputed; nevertheless, many NLP practitioners report high practical applicability.
In learning psychology, there are indications that adapting to individual learning accesses can be useful.

Criticism or Limitations

Eye access movements are not conclusively scientifically proven; studies yield contradictory results.
Danger of hasty generalizations (e.g., 'Anyone looking up to the left is lying') – this is not intended in NLP.
Mapping requires high sensitivity and attention; misinterpretations are possible.

Literature and References

Andreas, C. & Andreas, S. (1987). Heart of the Mind: Engaging Your Inner Power to Change with NLP. William Morrow and Company, New York.
Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
Dilts, R. (1994). Strategies of Genius IApplications of Neuro-Linguistic Programming
O'Connor, J., & Seymour, J. (2002). Introducing Neuro-Linguistic Programming: Psychological Skills for Understanding and Influencing People. Red Wheel / Wiser, Newburyport.
Grinder, M. (1991). Righting the Educational Conveyor Belt (2nd ed.). Metamorphous Press.
Derks, L. (1997). Social panoramas: Changing the unconscious landscape with NLP.Crown House Publishing.