The Principle of Positive Intention states that at some level, all behavior is intended or has been developed for some “positive purpose.” That is, people make the best choices available to them given the possibilities and capabilities that they perceive to be accessible within their model of the world. Thus, it is important to separate a person’s identity and positive intention from their behaviors.
According to the principle of positive intention, when dealing with resistance to change it is important and useful to:
1) Presuppose that all behavior (including resistance and limiting beliefs) is positively intended.
2) Separate the negative aspects of the behavior from the positive intention behind it.
3) Identify and respond to the positive intention of the resistant/problem person.
4) Offer the person other choices of behavior to achieve the same positive intention.
(Robert Dilts)
