NLP → NLP Lexicon

Process

Definition

In NLP, the term “Process” in the way something is done – that “How” of an action or communication. A process describes the sequence, dynamics, and structure of events, actions, or thoughts. This includes both external actions and internal mental and emotional states that accompany an action.

In contrast to the “Content” (the “What”) the process focuses on the underlying structure of thinking, feeling, and acting. An example: Someone says “I am sad.” The Content is the statement about the feeling. The Process is expressed in body language, tone of voice, or word choice that conveys the sadness.

A deep understanding of the process allows for change, as not only the content but also the patterns and sequences of experience can be influenced.

Origins and Theoretical Background

The term “process” comes from psychology, communication theory, and systems theory. In systems theory, it refers to how elements of a system interact and bring about change.

In NLP, the distinction between Content composure Process was introduced by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. They observed that successful communication depends less on what is said than on the manner of expression. Therefore, they focused on the process level in their modeling of effective communication.

Application Examples

• Coaching: A client with self-doubt learns not only to talk about the content of their thoughts but to change the process of their self-evaluation.
• Therapy: A therapist works with the way a client experiences feelings to enable deeper changes.
• Communication Training: Participants learn that in addition to words, tone of voice, body language, and rhythm (process) are crucial for the impact of their communication.

Areas of Application

• Therapy: Working on the processes behind thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns.
• Coaching: Support in recognizing and consciously shaping inner processes for change.
• Leadership Training: Improving the communication processes of leaders, especially in stressful situations.
• Conflict resolution: Clarifying misunderstandings by focusing on the processes behind the content.

Methods and Exercises

1. Reframing: Shifting the focus from content to the underlying processes of perception and evaluation.
2. Swish technique: Changing inner processes by replacing unwanted thoughts with desired ones.
3. Timeline work: Changing the processes by which memories are experienced to influence emotional impact.

Synonyms or Related Terms

• Process work
• Dynamics
• Systemic Perspective

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Scientifically: Process research shows that the how of communication is often more decisive than the What. Through process awareness, sustainable changes in behavior and communication can occur.
• Practically: Working at the process level promotes profound transformations, as not only symptoms (content) but also underlying patterns (processes) are changed.

Criticism or Limitations

• Simplification: Danger of reducing complex problems to the process level without considering deeper causes.
• Subjectivity: Processes can be perceived and interpreted differently, which can lead to misunderstandings.

Literature and References

• Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
• Dilts, R. (1998). NLP: The New Technology of Achievement. HarperCollins.
• Satir, V. (2000). The New Peoplemaking. Science and Behavior Books.

Metaphor or Analogy

A process is like the melody to which one dances – not the dance itself and not the dancer's dress, but the invisible pattern that directs the movements, determines pauses, and sets the flow. When the melody changes, the dance changes – even if the stage remains the same.

See also