Disconnection of the meaning of a word

In a therapeutic process it is important to understand the meaning of the used words. This fact is nothing new, though when the therapeutic process is conducted in a second language, there is a limitation.

When such misunderstanding is sensed in classic communication, perhaps there is a tendency to ignore that or attempt to explain it in a different way. And then it feels strange, because we don't know how to cope with the language barrier.

So the point is that using the same word can be understood differently in itself and in its context. Why? In the learning process firstly it is possible to hear a word during conversation and then get the wrong explanation of its meaning. But that is not all. By understanding we are adding our beliefs that have been created based on a different language system, therefore a different understanding of meanings.

And now we are coming to the point where in a certain area we need our own experience to be able to understand the meaning. Besides, idioms are developed from experiences somehow typical for the local area.

And the language that determines our thought process therefore creates a language system that includes a specific perception of time and specific meanings.

In this context I will point out what can be called a mentality trait, similarly, exists as a personality trait. The first difference is that a personality trait can be used in general while a mentality trait can be applied based on the area of the origin and includes more diversity, yet it is possible to find patterns.

If we return to the topic of coping strategy with misunderstanding based on language skills, there are some options. Firstly acceptance that this is completely fine, otherwise there might be a quick judgment that could be misleading. At first it is hard to say what misunderstanding is happening and on which side it is happening if at all, because a quick judgment can be influenced by other aspects. Let's say that desire for understanding is the same as desire for happiness. That's why it is useful to stay open. Secondly, when something is not clear on first hearing in verbal communication, it can be due to the whole context, but only because of some word(s). Questioning the meaning of a specific word and how it can be explained can be more helpful than just an attempt to understand the whole context. Questioning the explanation of the context quickly leads to the same effect - misunderstanding.

Now, if there is a need to go further as the misunderstanding persists, we have a great ability to mentally associate with things like symbols or experiences, thus in this case with words, memories, and experiences.

Because a language barrier can cause tension, some areas of the mind are not always accessible, which is why it might be difficult to use any kind of association. And here the state of hypnosis comes in, because in such state most barriers and tension are released. What remains is full access to the subconsciousness that can be unlimitedly creative. With creativity it is easier to find links between understood meanings in a state of hypnosis.

Perhaps it’s worth mentioning that communication has more elements and the verbal one forms only 7%. Therefore here comes another way to identify meanings of verbal expressions - visual expression, therefore some people find it better to draw what they are unable to express verbally.

Just a thought from a different perspective: What if the typical elements of each language were a basis for another language in future that would be a combination of vibrational elements and extended perception of time due to an extension of consciousness as we are constantly evolving? And I believe that such language wouldn't rely on voice only, but also on the personal connection.

In light of these thoughts it may now be worth to explore the meaning of words and the context of the whole communication. Quick judgment - a reason for building belief systems can also cause a stagnation of personal development.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Hypnotherapy Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

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London, Greater London, SE1 1LL
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Written by Jakub Tencl, PhD
London, Greater London, SE1 1LL

London, Brighton and Prague-based clinical therapist Dr. Jakub Tencl is a pioneer in mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral hypnotherapy. He is an author and organizer who has written mutliple books. He is a leader in his industry, and he is always moving forward, looking for ways to innovate and to refine the services he offers.

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