Active Listening

Synonyms

Attentive listening; Reflective technique of mirroring what is spoken

Definition

Active listening entails the listener’s involvement in hearing for intellectual and emotional messages. The listening focus is with what the person is saying, while confirming the accuracy of the content and affect of the message.

Description

Active listening involves the intent to listen for meaning, in which the listener checks-in with the speaker to verify a correct understanding of the presented message. The listener’s attention is to the process: what is heard and what is implied.

Active listening involves identifying explicit and implicit patterns of communication. Verbal communications are received and reflected along with the underlying expression of feelings in an attempt to understand or explain a core message. Active listening is a learned skill and effort to avoid misunderstandings by paying close attention to a speaker. Active listening can be facilitated by creating an environment...