Immunity to Change (Kegan & Lahey)

A framework for exploring whether a desired change is constrained by a competing commitment and a protective assumption. The immunity metaphor is a hypothesis-generating aid, not a biological mechanism or universal explanation of resistance.

Kegan and Lahey's framework explores whether a stated change goal conflicts with another commitment and an assumption that protects it. The immune-system language is a metaphor. A person might want to delegate while also trying to avoid the possibility of disappointing a client. That interpretation must come from the person's examination of the situation, not an outsider's claim to know a hidden motive.

Map the goal, the behavior that works against it, a possible competing commitment, and the assumption connecting them. Treat the map as a hypothesis. Practical barriers, unclear responsibilities, or a goal the person no longer wants may provide a better explanation. A bounded test should gather information about the assumption, including results that support it, rather than force disconfirmation or promise lasting change.

When to use it

Use voluntarily when a personally endorsed change repeatedly stalls and examining a competing concern may help.

How it can help

Map the chosen goal, contrary behavior, possible competing commitment, and assumption. Check practical barriers and test the assumption to learn, not necessarily to disconfirm it.