Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is often described as a behavioral and communication-based approach to personal development and psychotherapy. It is not recognized as a traditional "mind science" in the sense of being a scientifically established field like neuroscience or psychology. Instead, NLP is considered by some as a set of techniques and models for understanding how the mind and language interact to influence behavior and emotions.
NLP was developed in the 1970s by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. They claimed that by studying and modeling exceptional individuals and therapists, they could identify patterns of effective communication and behavior that could be replicated to bring about positive changes in individuals.
NLP incorporates various tools and techniques that practitioners use to help individuals improve communication skills, overcome limiting beliefs, and achieve personal goals. Some of the common techniques include anchoring (associating a specific state with a gesture or trigger), reframing (changing the perspective of a situation), and modeling (adopting the behavior of successful individuals).
While some people believe that NLP can be useful in certain contexts and find it beneficial for personal growth, there is also considerable skepticism and criticism surrounding its scientific validity. The empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of NLP is limited and mixed, with studies often showing inconsistent or inconclusive results.
Due to the lack of scientific consensus and rigorous research, NLP is not considered a mainstream or established scientific discipline. However, it has garnered a following among some self-help and coaching communities.
In summary, NLP is a set of techniques and models related to behavior, communication, and personal development, but it is not classified as a mind science in the traditional scientific sense. As with any approach to personal growth, it is essential to critically evaluate the claims and seek evidence-based practices when exploring methods for self-improvement.