Mini-Guides
The Iceberg Metaphor of Human Cognition
What lies beneath our conscious awareness when we evaluate ourselves, others, and the world around us?
In his research, Cliff Hurst explores the familiar iceberg metaphor of human cognition, which suggests that much of our thinking happens beneath the surface of conscious awareness. He examines whether the Hartman Value Profile (HVP), which is designed to reveal patterns in how we evaluate, aligns with the Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI), a tool that measures conscious awareness of our own thinking.
The findings suggest that the two instruments are measuring very different aspects of cognition. While the MAI reflects what we consciously know about our own thinking, the HVP appears to reveal deeper evaluative patterns that may not be readily accessible through conscious self-reflection.
For coaches, consultants, and others working in human development, this offers an important perspective on the relationship between self-awareness and self-understanding. What we consciously believe about ourselves may not always tell the whole story of how we actually evaluate and respond to the world.
This member resource distills the key ideas and practical implications of Hurst's research, including ways the iceberg metaphor can help explain the HVP, open conversations with clients, and encourage deeper reflection.
Download the Research Insights guide to explore the research and consider how it might apply to your own work.
ABOUT THESE GUIDES:
These downloadable resources are drawn from research originally published in academic journals. While the original articles can sometimes feel highly technical, these guides translate the key ideas into clear, practical insights that any member can understand and apply.
Each guide highlights the core concepts from the research and turns them into something you can use in your own work. You may choose to use the material to explain the research to a client, share the insights directly with them, or use the suggested prompts to create social media content that builds your credibility as an axiological practitioner.
Think of these as practical research summaries you can revisit, reference, and adapt. How you use them is entirely up to you.
DOWNLOAD THE MINI GUIDE:
