Dixon, Paul N.; Parr, Gerald D.; Yarbrough, Douglass; Rathael, Michael: Neurolinguistic programming as a persuasive communication technique. Journal of Social Psychology; Aug Vol 126 (4) 545-550, 1986.

Abstract: Compared the persuasive power of R. Bandler and J. Grinder's (1975) neurolinguistic programming (in which pacing and metaphor are used to overcome client resistance) to direct and placebo content messages in a group persuasion context among 98 undergraduates. Results indicate no significant differences in attitudes following treatment for the 3 groups. However, the direct message treatment was significantly more persuasive than the other treatments as reflected in the behavioral measure.