What is the NLP Meta Model?
NLP stands for ‘Neuro-Linguistic Programming’. An ‘NLP Meta-Model’ is a comprehensive framework consisting of specific questions designed to uncover and clarify the details of a person’s language. ‘Meta communication’ describes the subtlety of language, underlying requests, or guarded information. NLP Meta-Model patterns as we know them today sprouted in the 20th century. They were questions formed by two psychotherapists, Virginia Satir and Fritz Perls. The models were used when they noticed that their clients’ language was either operating from distorted beliefs, creating sweeping generalisations, or simply leaving out important information.
I see the people in front of me as doing the very best they can with what they have learned.
Virginia Satir, pp. 114
The meta-model questions although ideal for coaching & mentoring scenarios or strategic management practises, are to be used as sparingly and naturally as possible, as Virginia Satir explains:
‘anyone who perpetually clarifies and qualifies will seem just as dysfunctional as the person who rarely did so… [would seem] testy, uncooperative, and irritating.’
1964, pp. 89
How Can Utilising the NLP Meta Model Help My Business?
When applied correctly, the meta model prevents miscommunication by asking structured, powerful questions. It is a way of learning how to communicate with specificity and clarity, so that the people who are receiving what you have to say can understand you both as thoroughly and as quickly possible.
In terms of coaching and mentoring, NLP Meta Models provide the chance to foster clearer dialogue, as well as build trust and rapport. This can catalyse real behaviour change in individuals by addressing the true perceptions and aims of the other, and thus, fine tuning them to reality more effectively.
It can also encourage effective teamwork and support psychological safety efforts.
What is the Purpose & Benefit to Using the Meta Model?
The Meta Model aims to:
- Clarify Ambiguities: By making vague statements more precise.
- Challenge Limiting Beliefs: By reframing beliefs that restrict personal growth.
- Improve Problem-Solving: By identifying the true nature of issues through detailed inquiry.
Continuous disruption mean that traditional leadership paradigms no longer suffice. Organisations now more than ever need to unlock the potential of diverse teams to keep up. Fast-moving, cross-functional teams when supported and engaged correctly will collaborate to deliver innovative products and solutions at an unprecedented speed.
Applying Meta Model theory to a strategic management plan will elevate any leaders efforts to get the most out of their team in the best way possible.
Under this framework, the meta model (as it is structured to get to the root of what people mean) is ideal for specifying strengths and weaknesses. This can be really useful when it comes to position tracking and creating bespoke skills development plans for employees.
There are three three components that the NLP Metal Model is designed to identify in language. These are Distortion, Generalisation, and Deletion.
Key Components of the NLP Meta Model:
- DISTORTION: Identifies and challenges statements that seem to alter reality.
Example: If someone says, “He makes me angry,” an NLP practitioner might ask, “How does he make you angry?” to uncover the process behind this feeling.
- GENERALISATION: Addressing statements that apply specific experiences broadly.
Example: “I always fail,” can be challenged by asking, “Can you think of a time when you succeeded?” to break down the universal quantifier.
- DELETION: Filling in missing information in communication.
Example: “I feel bad,” can be specified by asking, “What specifically makes you feel bad?”
Examples of Meta Model Questions:
- Unspecified Nouns: “They don’t appreciate me.” → “Who specifically doesn’t appreciate you?”
- Mind Reading: “You think I’m lazy.” → “How do you know I think you’re lazy?”
- Nominalizations: “I need more success.” → “How would you know when you have more success?”
The NLP Meta Model is a powerful tool in therapy AND personal development, enabling deeper understanding and more effective communication.
“People respond to events based on their internal pictures, sounds and feelings. They also collect these experiences into groups or categories that are labeled with words. The meta-model is a method for helping someone go from the information-poor word maps back to the specific sensory-based experiences they are based on. It is here in the information-rich specific experiences that useful changes can be made that will result in changes in behaviour.”
Terry Elston “Knowing NLP”
Here’s an FAQ section for the NLP Meta Model that addresses common questions and provides clear, concise answers:
FAQ: NLP Meta Model
1. What is the NLP Meta Model?
The NLP Meta Model is a set of precise questions designed to identify and challenge linguistic patterns that distort, delete, or generalize information in communication. It aims to help individuals clarify their thoughts and improve their communication.
2. How does the NLP Meta Model work?
The Meta Model works by asking specific questions to uncover hidden details in a person’s language. This process helps to expose and correct distortions, fill in deletions, and break down overgeneralizations, leading to a clearer and more accurate understanding.
3. What are the key components of the NLP Meta Model?
The key components of the Meta Model are:
- Distortion: Identifying and clarifying altered perceptions of reality.
- Deletion: Recovering missing information in communication.
- Generalization: Challenging broad statements that apply specific experiences to all situations.
4. Can you give examples of Meta Model questions?
Sure! Here are a few examples:
- Distortion: “He never listens to me.” → “How do you know he never listens?”
- Deletion: “I feel upset.” → “What specifically makes you feel upset?”
- Generalization: “I always make mistakes.” → “Can you think of a time when you didn’t make a mistake?”
5. What are the benefits of using the NLP Meta Model?
The benefits include:
- Improved Communication: By making vague statements more precise.
- Enhanced Problem-Solving: By identifying the true nature of issues.
- Personal Growth: By challenging and reframing limiting beliefs.
6. Who developed the NLP Meta Model?
The NLP Meta Model was developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder, the co-founders of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
7. How is the NLP Meta Model used in therapy?
In therapy, the Meta Model is used to help clients clarify their thoughts, uncover the underlying causes of their issues, and develop more effective strategies for dealing with their problems.
8. What is the difference between the Meta Model and the Milton Model?
The Meta Model focuses on precision and clarity in language, while the Milton Model, developed by Milton Erickson, uses vague and ambiguous language to induce trance and facilitate unconscious change. Both are complementary tools in NLP.
9. Can the NLP Meta Model be used in everyday life?
Absolutely! The Meta Model can be used in everyday conversations to improve clarity, resolve misunderstandings, and enhance communication in personal and professional relationships.
10. Where can I learn more about the NLP Meta Model?
You can learn more from NLP training programs, books on NLP by Richard Bandler and John Grinder, and various online resources dedicated to Neuro-Linguistic Programming.
