Examining the Effectiveness of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques in improving Emotional Intelligence (EI) scores

Abstract

Purpose – Whether selected NLP techniques can improve EI scores. (Although there are many self-development training courses advertised on the internet claiming to be able to improve EI, yet no credible research has been published in peer-reviewed academic journals to show whether such techniques can improve EI.)Design/methodology/approach - This experimental research involved 35 test subjects and 35 control group subjects. Measurements were taken just before and just after the experiments in the test group and compared the results with the control group.Findings –Statistical t-tests revealed that with the test group, there were significant improvements in EI scores after undergoing the training compared with before. There were no significant changes in the control group.Originality/value - Since, Ahmad (2011) who looked at the effectiveness of the alternative techniques of NLP, Time Line Therapy®, and Hypnosis, there has been no further research regarding the effectiveness of NLP. Research limitations/implications - This study improves the study by Ahmad (2011) by ensuring that most of the respondents were not self-selected and ensured the use of other NLP techniques, in the context of improving EI.Paper type - Research paperKeywords: Emotional Intelligence, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Experiments