The what and how of reframing

Insoo Kim Berg's book Family Based Services: A Solution-Based Approach (Norton Professional Books) (1994) explains the concept of reframing nicely: "Reframing is simply an alternate, usually a positive interpretation of troublesome behavior that gives a positive meaning to the client's interaction with those in her environment. it suggests a new and different way of behaving, freeing the client to alter behavior and making it possible to bring about changes while "saving face". As a result, the client sees her situation differently, and may even find solutions in ways that she did not expect." Then, she gives some examples (slightly altered by me):

Troublesome behavior	Reframed version
Lazy	Laid back, relaxed, taking it easy
Pushy	Assertive, action oriented
Impatient	Action-oriented, has high standards
Uncaring	Allows room for others
Agressive	Strong, unaware of his own strength
Nagging	Concerned, trying to bring out the best in someone
Withdrawn	Deep thinker, thoughtful

Next, she describes a few steps with which you may practice your reframing skills:

1.    Think about what your current interpretation of the client's troublesome behavior.

2.    Train yourself to think of a number of alternative interpretations of the same behavior.

3.    Pick the one interpretation that seems most plausible and most fits the client's way of acting and thinking.

4.    Formulate a sentence in your mind that describes the new positive interpretation.

5.    Give the client feedback on what your thoughts are.

6.    The client reaction will let you know whether your reframing fit her or not. A good fit will bring a visible change in the client. Some clients look stunned, shocked, amused; they may even start to laugh.