
ACTIVE LISTENING
#Critical Listening
Definition: Analyzing and evaluating the content of the message critically.
Essence:
Evaluation: Assessing the credibility and validity of the message.
Decision-Making: Helps in making informed decisions based on the analysis.
Example: Listening to a political debate and critically evaluating the arguments presented to form an opinion.
#Content Listening:
• It is to understand and retain the speaker’s message. You may
ask questions but basically information flows from the speaker
to you.
• It does not matter that you agree or disagree, approve or
disapprove – only that you understand
Eg:
1) Lectures
2) Reporting sales projections
3) Journalists and interviews
PASSIVE LISTENING
# Reflective Listening
Definition: Listening carefully and then reflecting back what the speaker has said, often paraphrasing.
Essence:
Clarification: Ensures that the listener has understood the message correctly.
Validation: Shows the speaker that their message is being taken seriously.
Example: After a friend shares their concerns, you summarize their points to confirm your understanding: “So, what I hear you saying is…”
This type of listening can intersect between both types of listening styles:
Sometimes, the listener is able to understand the speaker right away, while there are times when the listener would use reflective listening skills to travel through the content presented and apply empathetic comprehension.
#Empathetic Listening
Definition: Understanding the speaker’s emotions and feelings.
Essence:
Emotional Connection: Builds a deeper emotional bond with the speaker.
Support: Provides emotional support by being understanding and compassionate.
Example: Comforting a friend who is upset by listening to their problems and expressing empathy.