NLP → NLP Lexicon

Problem State

Definition

One Problem State refers to a mental and physical state in which a person experiences a problem. It is characterized by thoughts, emotions, and physical reactions (problem physiology). When a person thinks about their problem, imagines a stressful situation, or recalls a negative experience, this often manifests in the form of tension, shallow breathing, or tense facial expressions. The problem state thus describes the holistic experience of a problem – both mentally and physically.

In NLP, it is understood that problems are not just abstract mental constructs, but are reflected in the entire system of the person. In the problem state, the person feels dominated by the problem – their perception, actions, and physiological reactions are shaped by it.

Origins and Theoretical Background

The concept of the problem state is based on the fundamental assumptions of NLP. Richard Bandler and John Grinder observed that people in difficult situations exhibit typical mental and physical patterns. This insight led to the development of methods to recognize and change the problem state. In NLP, the problem state is often contrasted with a desired state that can be consciously activated through appropriate techniques.

Application Examples

• Coaching: A client describes how a professional challenge burdens them. The coach recognizes from the tense body and problem-oriented language that they are in a problem state and guides them into a resource-oriented state.
• Therapy: A client recalls traumatic experiences and shows physical stress reactions such as rapid breathing. The therapist uses reframing or working with physiology to change the state.
• Negotiations: A party falls into a defensive problem state, which can lead to escalation. By consciously changing posture and perspective, the course of the conversation can be redirected towards solutions.

Areas of Application

• Therapy: Processing burdensome memories and states through breathing exercises, thought restructuring, or changing body posture.
• Coaching: Supporting clients in recognizing and leaving negative states to regain clarity and ability to act.
• Leadership Training: Applying the concept to make clear decisions even in stressful situations.
• Conflict resolution: Conscious resolution of problem states to avoid misunderstandings and escalations.

Methods and Exercises

1. State management: The client describes their problem state in detail while the coach guides breathing or body exercises to help them relax.
2. Reframing: The problem is viewed as a challenge rather than an obstacle, thereby changing the emotional state.
3. State anchors: With NLP anchors, positive resources are linked to a physical signal, allowing the client to leave the problem state more quickly.
4. Progressive muscle relaxation: By specifically relaxing the muscles, the physical component of the problem state is resolved.

Synonyms

• Problem focus
• Cognitive state
• Blockage

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Scientifically: In psychosomatics and stress research, it is proven that mental problems can trigger physiological reactions (e.g., increased blood pressure, hormonal changes).
• Practically: In NLP, recognizing problem states enables quick interventions that contribute to emotional regulation and better problem-solving.

Criticism or Limitations

• Subjectivity: The problem state varies individually and is not easily objectively measurable.
• Complexity: For deeply rooted problems, a change of state is often not enough – deeper therapeutic interventions are necessary.

Literature and References

• Dilts, R., & DeLozier, J. (2000). Encyclopedia of Systemic Neuro-Linguistic Programming and NLP New Coding. NLP Comprehensive.
• Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
• O'Connor, J., & McDermott, I. (1996). NLP: A Guide to Excellence in Coaching. Thorsons.

Metaphor or Analogy

A problem state is like a tunnel with distorted mirror glass – the further you go in, the narrower the space seems, the darker the light, and the larger the problem appears. You only see the obstacle, not the exits – even though they are just behind the next bend. As soon as the inner state changes, the exit becomes visible.

See also