Active listening

Definition

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the speaker is saying. It emphasizes engagement and feedback, ensuring that the listener not only hears the words but also grasps the underlying emotions and intentions. This technique is crucial for establishing trust and rapport, especially during interviews and sensitive conversations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Active listening involves giving full attention to the speaker, which helps create a safe environment for them to share their thoughts and feelings.
2. It requires the listener to use verbal affirmations like 'I see' or 'Go on' to encourage the speaker, showing that they are engaged.
3. Summarizing what the speaker has said is a key component of active listening, as it confirms understanding and validates the speaker's message.
4. Active listening is particularly important in sensitive interviews where trust and emotional safety are paramount.
5. Practicing active listening can significantly enhance the quality of information gathered during interviews, leading to deeper insights.

Review Questions

• How does active listening contribute to building rapport during on-camera interviews?
  • Active listening enhances rapport during on-camera interviews by making the interviewee feel valued and understood. When the interviewer actively listens, they demonstrate respect for the interviewee's thoughts and emotions, which encourages open communication. This creates a comfortable environment where the interviewee is more likely to share personal stories and insights, ultimately enriching the interview.
• In what ways does active listening play a role in conducting sensitive interviews with vulnerable subjects?
  • In conducting sensitive interviews, active listening is vital as it allows the interviewer to respond thoughtfully to emotional cues and concerns of vulnerable subjects. By being fully present and engaged, the interviewer can create a safe space for subjects to express their feelings without fear of judgment. This approach not only facilitates deeper conversations but also helps in navigating complex emotional landscapes effectively.
• Evaluate how employing active listening techniques can influence trauma-informed reporting practices.
  • Employing active listening techniques in trauma-informed reporting practices significantly impacts how journalists engage with individuals who have experienced trauma. By actively listening, reporters can better understand the nuances of a survivor's experience and provide a supportive atmosphere for them to share their stories. This approach ensures that reporting is not only respectful but also accurately reflects the complexities of trauma, contributing to more ethical journalism that prioritizes the well-being of sources.

Related terms

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which is essential in building a connection with interview subjects.

Nonverbal Communication: The transmission of messages or information without the use of words, often through gestures, facial expressions, and body language.

Feedback: Information given to the speaker about their message, which can help clarify understanding and improve communication.