Active Listening

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the active listening process, stages of listening, listening styles, barriers to effective listening, and improving listening skills.

Listening Process

Involves six stages: Receiving, Understanding, Interpreting, Evaluating, Remembering, Responding.

Receiving

The initial stage of listening where one sees and hears information.

Understanding

Recognizing the literal (denotative) meaning of words.

Interpreting

Identifying implications (connotative meanings) in a person's words.

Evaluating

Comparing new information against past knowledge, influenced by beliefs and values.

Remembering

The stage of recalling messages back into the conscious mind.

Mnemonics

Mental devices that aid memory, helping retain information.

Responding

Communicating attention and comprehension to the speaker.

Positive Feedback

Showing attentiveness by looking at the speaker, smiling, and leaning forward.

Negative Feedback

Indicating disinterest by avoiding eye contact and appearing distracted.

Motives for Listening

Different reasons for listening that shape how we listen.

Five Common Listening Functions

To comprehend, provide support, analyze, appreciate, and discern.

Multitasking and Listening

People who multitask are more likely to mishear or miss messages.

Listening Styles

Habitual patterns of listening behaviors reflecting attitudes and beliefs.

Task-Oriented Listeners

Listeners who focus on task completion and prefer brief, accurate messages.

Relational Listeners

Listeners who aim to build relationships and empathically connect with others.

Critical Listeners

Listeners who evaluate accuracy and consistency in messages.

Analytical Listeners

Listeners who withhold judgment until all facts are considered.

Selective Listening

Absorbing some information while dismissing others, influenced by attention.

Pseudo-Listening

Pretending to pay attention, preventing true understanding.

Aggressive Listening

Listening only for opportunities to attack others in conversations.

Managing Feedback

Providing feedback that is positive, obvious, appropriate, and immediate.

Adapting Listening

Changing listening styles based on situational demands and the needs of speakers.

Value of Silence

Recognizing silence as a way to provide support during emotional discussions.