Attention alone is not enough; you must actively work to grasp the speaker’s message, including both facts and emotions. This step prevents misinterpretation.
Active listening is more than just hearing words. It is a structured communication technique that requires the listener to fully concentrate, understand, respond, and remember what is being said. Research in interpersonal communication (e.g., from Carl Rogers and Richard Farson) identifies four core components that transform passive hearing into active listening. 4 components of active listening
Use brief verbal prompts like "Go on" or "Tell me more." Attention alone is not enough; you must actively