The Iceberg Model is a metaphor used to explain the different levels of awareness or consciousness in individuals, groups, or organizations. It is named after an iceberg because, like an iceberg, most of what makes up an individual or organization's reality or behavior is hidden beneath the surface and is not immediately visible.
The Iceberg Model proposes that there are three levels of awareness:
- The Visible Level: This level represents the observable and explicit behaviors, actions, and outcomes that are visible to others.
- The Hidden Level: This level represents the beliefs, attitudes, values, and assumptions that are not immediately visible but influence the visible level. These are often unconscious and taken for granted.
- The Deep Level: This level represents the unconscious or subconscious aspects of an individual or organization, including motivations, fears, desires, and emotions. These are not easily accessible or visible to the individual or others.
The Iceberg Model is often used in organizational or personal development contexts to encourage individuals or groups to explore and understand the underlying beliefs, assumptions, and motivations that influence behavior and outcomes. By doing so, individuals and organizations can develop greater self-awareness and insight, and make more informed decisions and choices.