Mindfulness Mondays 42: Framing
March 15, 2010 by dr. lam
In the Neuro-Linguistic Programming, the idea of “framing” is an important concept to understand. Essentially, it describes how we filter our world around us and set the filter for others based on the words we choose, body language, and tone of voice. An example described in the book, Nudge, is a patient being presented with the fact that a certain heart operation would have a 90 percent chance of success in 5 years and would be recommended for the individual to undergo. The responses were much more favorable when “framed” in that manner versus, “10% of individuals died within 5 years of having this operation.” Fewer individuals chose to have the operation because it was framed in a negative manner even though the facts were identical in both presentations.
The dominant frame in a situation is the person who can set the tone of the frame that would override another person’s frame based on charisma, intelligence, and delivery. In such a fashion, the dominant frame can bring the frame of the adjacent person into his frame. When an individual’s frame is primarily negative, dour, and downcast, my job is to reframe the thinking toward one of greater positivity. Not always an easy task.
This week, be mindful of the words you use and how you deliver them (your tone, body language, facial expressions, etc.) and the effect that such a delivery can have on those around you. Try to establish a dominant, positive frame in each and every encounter so that people around you will join your frame and be uplifted by your presence.
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You’ve addressed these concepts here before, and they’re so useful. Matter of fact, I view this stuff as money (wisdom) lying on the ground. If we are willing to objectively address our habituated or learned responses, there’s no telling how much we might benefit. I think the first challenge is to see with clarity. Great blog.
thanks so much nord. kind words. glad that we all can help “frame” each other well. lol.