Effect of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) on Anxiety: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Anxiety is a feeling of helplessness, and worry about things that are not clear, as well as a comprehensive feeling that something bad is going to happen. Anxiety is experienced subjectively and communicated interpersonally, at the same time feelings of anxiety are a necessary survival instinct. The Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a communicative approach employs a positive view of anxiety and how it can help shape life changes, and that is the topic of this article. This research method uses a Systematic Literature Review, investigating Garuda, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and Proquest, using boolean for keyword neurolinguistics programming (NLP) and anxiety. The inclusion criteria used were Indonesian and English language articles written within the last 5 years (from 2015 until 2020). The exclusion criteria used by the article were abstract writing style, inaccessible, or lacking national accreditation. Articles were tested with Critical Appraisal Tools. The studies indicate that good communication using NLP can help reduce anxiety and can promote changes in a person’s behavior patterns. There are several NLP techniques including sensory acuity, reframing, anchoring, rapport, and pacing, and leading. NLP can improve knowledge, skills and attitudes, communication skills, self-management, mental health, reduce work stress, and self-efficacy.   Keywords: Anxiety, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, NLP