To better understand how the “pyramid of influence” works, let’s take a look at the story of Cory Herbert, the 18-year-old boy who served a year of prison sentence for drug distribution. After his release, Cory was expected to change, but he went to prison again in a few months. This time for theft of prescription drugs.

Corey was sentenced to a two-month stint in Camp Moriah, Arizona, taking the survival course. When he and his parents arrived, they were met by the camp's leader, Yusuf al-Falah. He told them about the camp and introduced them to other participants of this program – troubled teenagers along with their families.

Yusuf and his colleague Avi spent two days with Cory's parents Lou and Carol, who were concerned about their son's behavior and future. Lou chuckled, not comprehending when Avi said that their work was more concerned with the parents than the child. The parents were assured that the main problem was their son.

Then Avi asked them, “You’ve tried to change Cory, to make him better… But was it effective? Has he changed his behavior?” Lou’s answer was, “No. That is why we are here.”

Yusuf explained the concept of the "pyramid of influence" to Cory's parents. Usually, people pay more attention to addressing issues at the very top of the pyramid rather than seeking answers at the bottom. Moreover, they tend to do it harshly by criticizing and punishing.

However, it’s much more effective to go deep into the bottom of the pyramid. It requires focusing on encouraging the changes for the better by enhancing relationships, offering assistance and learning. In this way, we pay attention to the core of the issue and have bigger chances to improve the situation.

After that, Yusuf started telling a story.