Can any NLP techniques be used to discern negativity/resistance to change in a person?
That’s a tricky question. NLP stresses astute observation of nonverbal behavior. If you notice involuntary reactions every time the topic of change comes up, it could be a sign that some part of their unconscious is resisting change. If the person shows nonverbal incongruity they say they want to change while shaking their head “No”–, that could signal resistance. If they show sequential incongruity, “I want to do X” but then they come up with a million excuses why they can’t do X, that could also signal resistance. The NLP models really begin with the presumption that “resistance” simply means that some unconscious criterion for change readiness hasn’t been met. The approach of a good NLP therapist (in my humble opinion) is to understand all aspects conscious and otherwise of a problem and help the client create a solution that addresses all aspects. When that’s done, there’s no resistance. For instance, a client could be grappling with an internal conflict that prevents him from wor